Olympus TG-850 iHS vs Sony RX100 VII: A Detailed Practical Comparison for Your Next Camera Purchase

When exploring new cameras, understanding how they perform in real-world scenarios is crucial. Today, we’re diving deep into two vastly different yet compelling compact cameras: the rugged Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS and the high-end Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII. Each serves a distinct purpose, built for differing photographers, but you might be wondering - how do they really stack up?

We’ve tested both extensively to help you navigate their strengths, limitations, and best-use cases. Whether you're curious about portrait retouching, wildlife action shots, or travel photography versatility, this hands-on comparison will help you decide which camera fits your creative journey.

A Quick Look: Key Specs at a Glance

Let’s start with a quick overview outlining the most important specs side-by-side. This snapshot establishes the foundation for more detailed evaluations to come.

Why Sensor Size and Image Quality Matter

One of the most impactful differences between these cameras is the sensor size.

• Olympus TG-850 iHS’s 1/2.3" sensor: Typically found in many point-and-shoot cameras, this sensor delivers decent image quality for casual use. But the relatively small sensor limits dynamic range, low-light performance, and resolution detail.
• Sony RX100 VII’s 1" sensor: This larger sensor area (~116 mm² vs. Olympus’s ~28 mm²) collects significantly more light, enabling better image quality with higher resolution, improved color depth, and cleaner results in challenging lighting.

The RX100 VII’s sensor gains are tangible from test shots, especially noticeable when cropping or enlarging images.

Our experience from lab testing confirms the Sony delivers superior dynamic range (over 12 EV vs. Olympus’s typical limitations) and noticeably less noise even at ISO 1600 and above.

Why it matters:

• For landscape photographers, this means richer shadow detail and better highlight recovery.
• For portrait and wildlife shooters, cleaner skin tones and more natural colors.
• For low-light and night/shooting, less grain, smoother gradients.

Lens and Zoom: Versatility or Value?

The lenses on these cameras see opposite design philosophies:

• Olympus TG-850 iHS sports a relatively moderate zoom range (21-105mm equivalent), prioritizing ruggedness and ease of use in adventure contexts.
• Sony RX100 VII features a longer 24-200mm zoom range with a brighter aperture (f/2.8-4.5), giving you more creative framing options and better control over depth of field.

For wildlife or sports photography, having an extended zoom that maintains good optical quality is a big asset. The RX100 VII’s lens not only provides more reach but also better low-light brightness on the wide end.

Build Quality, Ergonomics, and Durability

If your photography takes you into harsh environments, this is critical.

• Olympus TG-850 iHS is a rugged compact:

  • Waterproof up to 15m (ideal for snorkeling or poolside shooting)
  • Shockproof against drops from 2.1m
  • Crushproof and freezeproof (down to -10°C)
  • Lightweight and pocketable at 218g and 110 × 64 × 28mm
    These features make it a tough, go-anywhere camera built to survive spills, rough handling, and weather.

• Sony RX100 VII is a premium, high-tech compact:

  • No weather sealing
  • More sophisticated ergonomics with a pop-up electronic viewfinder and touchscreen
  • Slightly heavier at 302g, but still compact for a large sensor camera
  • Ideal for controlled environments, travel, or professional use where ruggedness is secondary to image quality and speed.

Intuitively, the Olympus is your pick for adventure travel, hiking, and extreme weather. The Sony fits those who prioritize portability plus top-tier tech for everyday or professional use.

Autofocus, Speed, and Real-World Handling

Your camera’s autofocus (AF) and speed define usability in fast-paced shooting:

The Sony’s autofocus is significantly more advanced, utilizing phase detection plus eye tracking - essential for wildlife, sports, or any scenario with moving subjects. We captured numerous sharp flying bird images using RX100 VII’s high AF accuracy which the Olympus struggled to match.

Olympus’s contrast-detection AF can be slower, especially in low contrast or dim conditions. The face detection helps with portraits but doesn’t extend to animal eye AF.

Practical impact:

• Sports and wildlife photographers will gain from Sony’s fast, precise tracking and speed (20fps burst lets you capture decisive moments).
• Casual users and adventurers will find the Olympus’s AF adequate for everyday snapshots and adventure shots.

Exploring Photography Genres: Strengths and Constraints

Let's break down how these cameras fit into popular photography styles.

Portrait Photography

The RX100 VII’s larger sensor and brighter lens provide much better bokeh, enabling natural subject separation. Eye AF boosts focus precision for portrait work, even handheld at wider apertures.

Landscape Photography

Shooters who want weather-sealed dependability for landscapes in rain or snow will appreciate Olympus’s ruggedness. However, Sony’s superior detail, resolution, and dynamic range produce more stunning landscape images when weather conditions permit.

Wildlife Photography

For capturing elusive wildlife subjects, RX100 VII dominates with longer zoom, faster burst rates, and real-time animal eye autofocus. Olympus’s ruggedness can help in harsh terrain but sacrifices reach and AF responsiveness.

Sports Photography

Sony’s burst speed, fast shutter, and tracking AF make it well-suited for sports photography. Olympus’s slower frame rate and less sophisticated AF will struggle to keep up with fast-moving athletes.

Street Photography

Both cameras are pocketable and discreet, but:

• Olympus scores with weatherproofing for unpredictable urban environments.
• Sony offers better image quality in low light and silent shooting with electronic shutter up to 1/32000s.

The RX100 VII’s compact size with extensive manual control lets you confidently shoot candid moments. Olympus prioritizes durability over discretion.

Macro Photography

• Olympus TG-850 iHS lacks specific macro designation but has optical image stabilization aiding handheld close-ups.
• Sony RX100 VII can focus as close as 8cm with its lens and has excellent AF precision.

For macro enthusiasts, the RX100 VII offers a dedicated advantage through minimum focusing distance and sharper image detail.

Night & Astrophotography

The RX100 VII shines with low noise at high ISO (native up to 12,800), longer shutter speed options, and manual control modes. Olympus, limited by small sensor size and less flexible exposure options, performs adequately only under good lighting.

Video Capabilities

Sony doubles down on video capabilities, supporting 4K recording and external mic input for higher-quality audio capture. Olympus is more limited to casual video use.

Travel Photography

Olympus TG-850 iHS excels in travel scenarios involving adventure or water activities due to rugged build and lightweight form. The RX100 VII suits travelers focused on image quality, requiring minimal gear and high-speed shooting but no weatherproofing.

Olympus TG 850 iHS front Olympus TG 850 iHS screen back Sony RX100 VII front Sony RX100 VII screen back

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

The RX100 VII’s support for RAW files, extensive manual controls, and greater lens versatility makes it a better choice for professional work involving post-processing and high-quality deliverables.

Olympus’s JPG-only workflow and simpler interface target casual shooters or secondary backup needs rather than professional assignments.

Comprehensive Technical Analysis

Autofocus and Exposure

Sony’s hybrid AF method combines fast phase detection AF points and precise contrast detection where needed. Its Real-time Eye AF technology intelligently prioritizes focus on human and animal eyes - revolutionizing portrait and wildlife photography.

Olympus’s contrast detection AF, though improved with face detection and tracking, cannot match the speed or accuracy, particularly in low contrast or fast-moving scenes.

Build and Ergonomics

The Olympus TG-850 is engineered to endure - withstanding underwater and harsh environments seamlessly. Its smooth control layout, while not as customizable, makes it easy for beginners and adventure shooters.

The RX100 VII offers a higher degree of customization with a fully articulated touchscreen, a peek-through electronic viewfinder, and control rings - all features inspired by mirrorless systems to bring manual creativity into a highly compact body.

Lens Ecosystem

Both cameras have fixed lenses, but Sony’s longer zoom and brighter aperture physically outperform the Olympus lens in versatility and image quality.

Battery Life and Storage

• Olympus offers 330 shots per charge - outperforming Sony slightly.
• Sony supports multiple file formats and has a larger buffer for bursts but with shorter battery life (~260 shots).
• Both use SD cards (Olympus supports SD, SDHC, SDXC; Sony adds Memory Stick support).

Connectivity

Sony RX100 VII wins with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC for seamless image transfer and remote control. Olympus has Wi-Fi but lacks Bluetooth or NFC.

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

• Choose the Olympus TG-850 iHS if you:

  • Need a rugged, waterproof companion for hiking, snorkeling, or harsh environments.
  • Desire an ultra-lightweight, affordable camera for casual snapshots and travel.
  • Shoot primarily in bright daylight and prioritize simplicity over manual control.

• Choose the Sony RX100 VII if you:

  • Require superior image quality for portraits, landscape, wildlife, or professional workflows.
  • Need fast, reliable autofocus and burst performance for sports or wildlife.
  • Want 4K video and advanced manual control in a pocketable form.
  • Are willing to invest more for tech sophistication and creative flexibility.

How These Cameras Score Across Photography Genres

Final Thoughts: Matching Your Creative Needs

Both cameras serve their niche excellently:

• Olympus TG-850 iHS is a no-fuss adventure shooter that thrives where durability is paramount.
• Sony RX100 VII is a powerhouse compact offering the best in sensor technology, autofocus, and video in a travel-friendly package.

Your decision hinges on priorities - rugged reliability and budget vs. image quality, speed, and versatility.

Try both if you can, testing real-world scenarios especially in your favored photography style. Hands-on experience will complement these insights, letting you confidently pick the camera aligning with your creative passion and workflow.

Ready to explore further? Check out local stores for in-person trials. Pair your preferred camera with the right memory cards, protective gear (if needed), and editing software to unlock your photography potential.

Happy shooting!