Olympus TG-870 vs Panasonic S3

Here is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus TG-870 and Panasonic S3, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the TG-870 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is relatively well matched and they possess the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The TG-870 was launched 5 years later than the S3 and that is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the TG-870 matches up versus the S3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-870 Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus TG-870 provides physical measurements of 113mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) while the Panasonic S3 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus TG-870 and Panasonic S3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilising at that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the TG-870 compared to the S3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the TG-870 and S3 is 91 and 96 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing simply by checking specs. The graphic here might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-870 and S3.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Olympus TG-870 to give you greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The fresher TG-870 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.