Olympus TG-860 vs Panasonic GF1

In this article, we are looking at the Olympus TG-860 vs Panasonic GF1, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the image resolutions of the TG-860 (16MP) and GF1 (12MP) and the TG-860 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) feature different sensor size.

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The TG-860 was introduced 5 years after the GF1 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-860 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise summation of how the TG-860 matches up vs the GF1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-860 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus TG-860 Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus TG-860 features outside measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") with a weight of 224 grams (0.49 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF1 has dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus TG-860 vs Panasonic GF1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the TG-860 compared to the GF1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-860 and GF1 is 91 and 85 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by researching specifications. The picture underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-860 and GF1.

Plainly, both of those cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The TG-860 having a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Olympus TG-860 will provide you with more detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The newer TG-860 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.