Olympus TG-870 vs Panasonic GF1

In this write-up, we are comparing the Olympus TG-870 versus Panasonic GF1, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the TG-870 (16MP) and GF1 (12MP) and the TG-870 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The TG-870 was brought out 6 years later than the GF1 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a thorough comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the TG-870 matches up versus the GF1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-870 Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus TG-870 comes with physical measurements of 113mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.1") having a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) and the Panasonic GF1 has dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Examine the Olympus TG-870 versus Panasonic GF1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the TG-870 compared to the GF1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the TG-870 and GF1 is 91 and 85 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to see the gap between sensor sizing only by going over technical specs. The graphic underneath may provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-870 and GF1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The TG-870 because of its tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF harder and the Olympus TG-870 will deliver more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop images a little more aggressively. The newer TG-870 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.