Olympus TG-870 vs Panasonic GF5

Here is a in depth overview of the Olympus TG-870 vs Panasonic GF5, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the TG-870 (16MP) and GF5 (12MP) and the TG-870 (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The TG-870 was manufactured 3 years later than the GF5 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the TG-870 matches up versus the GF5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The entire galleries are available at Olympus TG-870 Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus TG-870 provides outer measurements of 113mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.1") with a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) while the Panasonic GF5 has dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Examine the Olympus TG-870 vs Panasonic GF5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the TG-870 vs the GF5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the TG-870 and GF5 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to see the gap between sensor sizing merely by going over specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-870 and GF5.

All in all, both cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The TG-870 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Olympus TG-870 will offer greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more recent TG-870 will have an edge in sensor technology.