Olympus TG-860 vs Samsung NX5

Below, we will be comparing the Olympus TG-860 versus Samsung NX5, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the TG-860 (16MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is pretty well matched but the TG-860 (1/2.3") and NX5 (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

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The TG-860 was launched 4 years later than the NX5 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus TG-860 being a Ultracompact camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the TG-860 grades versus the NX5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-860 and Samsung NX5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus TG-860 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus TG-860 has outer dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") along with a weight of 224 grams (0.49 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX5 has dimensions of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus TG-860 versus Samsung NX5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the TG-860 compared to the NX5.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the TG-860 and NX5 is 91 and 80 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be hard to envision the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading through specs. The graphic underneath will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-860 and NX5.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The TG-860 because of its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more difficult and the Olympus TG-860 will give you extra detail utilizing its extra 1MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs much more aggressively. The newer TG-860 will have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.