Olympus TG-870 vs Pentax Q

Here, we will be reviewing the Olympus TG-870 vs Pentax Q, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. There is a significant difference between the image resolutions of the TG-870 (16MP) and Q (12MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The TG-870 was introduced 4 years later than the Q and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the TG-870 scores against the Q in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 and Pentax Q. The whole galleries are available at Olympus TG-870 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-870 has external measurements of 113mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.1") along with a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") along with a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Check out the Olympus TG-870 vs Pentax Q in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the TG-870 compared to the Q.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the TG-870 and Q is 91 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to see the contrast between sensor sizing purely by going over a spec sheet. The graphic below should provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-870 and Q.

Clearly, the two cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Olympus TG-870 to deliver more detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The younger TG-870 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.