Olympus TG-870 vs Panasonic GH2

Here, we will be contrasting the Olympus TG-870 and Panasonic GH2, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the TG-870 (16MP) and the GH2 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the TG-870 (1/2.3") and GH2 (Four Thirds) boast totally different sensor measurements.

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The TG-870 was brought out 4 years later than the GH2 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a complete comparison, here is a concise summation of how the TG-870 scores against the GH2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-870 Gallery & Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-870 enjoys outside dimensions 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 GH2 has sizing of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") having a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Examine the Olympus TG-870 and Panasonic GH2 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the TG-870 compared to the GH2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the TG-870 and GH2 is 91 and 70 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading through technical specs. The graphic below might give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-870 and GH2.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras come with the identical resolution albeit not the same sensor sizing. The TG-870 features the tinier sensor which will make getting shallower DOF more difficult. The fresher TG-870 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.