Olympus TG-860 vs Sony WX500

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus TG-860 versus Sony WX500, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the TG-860 (16MP) and the WX500 (18MP) is relatively similar and both cameras posses the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The TG-860 was revealed 2 months earlier than the WX500 and they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-860 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony WX500 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the TG-860 scores versus the WX500 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-860 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-860 Gallery & Sony WX500 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera often, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus TG-860 has got exterior 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) and the Sony WX500 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") with a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Examine the Olympus TG-860 versus Sony WX500 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the TG-860 compared to the WX500.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-860 and WX500 is 91 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to envision the difference between sensor measurements simply by reading a spec sheet. The photograph below might provide you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-860 and WX500.

As you can see, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Sony WX500 to offer extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively.