Olympus TG-860 vs Panasonic LZ20

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus TG-860 and Panasonic LZ20, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the TG-860 (16MP) and the LZ20 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The TG-860 was manufactured 2 years later than the LZ20 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus TG-860 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple overview of how the TG-860 scores versus the LZ20 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-860 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-860 Gallery and Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus TG-860 has got external dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 224 grams (0.49 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LZ20 has dimensions of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Compare the Olympus TG-860 and Panasonic LZ20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Here is a front view scale comparison of the TG-860 versus the LZ20.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the TG-860 and LZ20 is 91 and 71 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to envision the difference between sensor sizing merely by looking at technical specs. The visual underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-860 and LZ20.

As you can tell, both cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the identical MP so you should expect similar quality of photos however you should always factor the production date of the products into consideration. The fresher TG-860 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.