Olympus TG-870 vs Samsung NX20

Its time to look more in depth at the Olympus TG-870 versus Samsung NX20, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Advanced Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the TG-870 (16MP) and the NX20 (20MP) is fairly close but the TG-870 (1/2.3") and NX20 (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

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The TG-870 was unveiled 3 years later than the NX20 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera and the Samsung NX20 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the TG-870 scores versus the NX20 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 and Samsung NX20. The full galleries are provided at Olympus TG-870 Gallery and Samsung NX20 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-870 comes with exterior 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) while the Samsung NX20 has sizing of 122mm x 90mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.5" x 1.6") and a weight of 341 grams (0.75 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-870 versus Samsung NX20 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the TG-870 vs the NX20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the TG-870 and NX20 is 91 and 83 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The visual below may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-870 and NX20.

As you can tell, both cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The TG-870 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Samsung NX20 will result in more detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The newer TG-870 will have an edge with regard to sensor technology.