Olympus TG-860 vs Samsung PL170

On this page, we are looking at the Olympus TG-860 and Samsung PL170, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the TG-860 (16MP) and the PL170 (16MP) is very similar and both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The TG-860 was unveiled 4 years later than the PL170 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Ultracompact).

Before diving into a detailed comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the TG-860 scores versus the PL170 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-860 and Samsung PL170. The full galleries are provided at Olympus TG-860 Gallery and Samsung PL170 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus TG-860 has external measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 224 grams (0.49 lbs) while the Samsung PL170 has specifications of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus TG-860 and Samsung PL170 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the TG-860 compared to the PL170.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-860 and PL170 is 91 and 99 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading specs. The graphic below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-860 and PL170.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same MP and you should expect similar quality of files although you might want to factor the production date of the products into consideration. The more modern TG-860 should have an edge with regard to sensor tech.