Olympus TG-860 vs Panasonic XS1

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus TG-860 versus Panasonic XS1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the TG-860 (16MP) and the XS1 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras have the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The TG-860 was launched 2 years later than the XS1 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus TG-860 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the TG-860 scores against the XS1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-860 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-860 Gallery and Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-860 comes with outer measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") along with a weight of 224 grams (0.49 lbs) and the Panasonic XS1 has measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") and a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Compare the Olympus TG-860 versus Panasonic XS1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the TG-860 and the XS1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the TG-860 and XS1 is 91 and 97 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to see the gap between sensor sizing merely by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-860 and XS1.

As you can see, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same MP so you should expect similar quality of pictures though you might want to consider the production date of the products into consideration. The more recent TG-860 will have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.