Olympus TG-870 vs Samsung TL240: An In-Depth Comparison for Practical Photography Use

When stepping up from your smartphone or entry-level point-and-shoot, the ultracompact camera category offers tempting features for enthusiasts and pros wanting portability without sacrificing too much quality. Today, I’m putting two interesting ultracompacts under the microscope: the Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 (hereafter TG-870) versus the Samsung TL240. Though these cameras were released six years apart, their still-relevant features and unique personalities make for a surprisingly educational comparison.

Having personally tested thousands of cameras across genres - from gritty street scenes to pristine landscapes and challenging wildlife shots - I’ll cut through the specs jungle and bring you hands-on insights valuable for deciding which one suits your shooting style and budget.

Let’s start by squaring them off physically.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

Looking at raw numbers, the TG-870 measures 113 x 64 x 28 mm, tipping the scales at 221 grams. Samsung's TL240 is smaller at 104 x 58 x 20 mm and lighter at 160 grams. Both slide comfortably into a jacket pocket - but the difference is noticeable if you prefer minimalist loads.

The TG-870's slightly chunkier body means it can accommodate rugged features like waterproofing and shockproofing - something you simply won’t find with the TL240. You’ll feel more secure with the TG-870 in harsh conditions or casual outdoor adventures, whereas the TL240 is a sleek, street-ready companion for urban travel and everyday use.

Ergonomics-wise, the TG-870 gives you a decent grip, with rubberized surfaces that help when your hands are wet or you’re gloved up. The TL240 is smooth and slim; its aluminum body is classy but demands a lighter touch and might feel slippery.

To me, the TG-870’s form factor caters better to photographers who value durability and confidence in unpredictable environments. TL240 is for those who prize pocketability and style over ruggedness.

Design and Control Layout: What Do You Have at Your Fingertips?

Controls matter, especially when you don’t have the benefit of physical dials found on higher-end models. The TG-870 keeps things straightforward with traditional buttons clustered ergonomically. Dedicated zoom controls, exposure lock, and a four-way pad with a ring for menu navigation mean you won’t need to dive deep into touchscreen menus often.

Samsung’s TL240, on the other hand, integrates a touchscreen interface on its 3.5-inch display (more on that soon), which is still uncommon for ultracompacts of its generation. The top view is minimalist, lacking many physical buttons. This approach suits casual shooters comfortable with tapping through menus but can frustrate those who prefer tactile feedback or quick one-touch changes.

I appreciate that the TG-870 leans into physical controls for urgent adjustments during fast-paced shooting. The TL240’s touchscreen is a nice feature but feels a bit slow and imprecise at times due to its limited resolution.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Photo Performance

Both cameras share a 1/2.3-inch sensor - typical territory for ultracompacts. The TG-870 boasts a BSI (Backside Illuminated) CMOS sensor with 16 megapixels, while the TL240 houses a 14-megapixel CCD sensor.

BSI CMOS sensors generally outperform CCDs in low light, dynamic range, and speed, so expecting the TG-870 to deliver better image quality is reasonable. Through my tests, the TG-870 produced cleaner images at higher ISOs up to 6400 native and manageable noise at boosted ISO 12800. The TL240 caps out at ISO 4800 native, with noise increasing considerably above ISO 800.

The TG-870 also edges out in dynamic range, capturing more highlight and shadow detail - critical for landscape photographers and those shooting in mixed lighting. The TL240’s CCD is no slouch in good lighting but struggles in shadows.

However, neither camera shoots RAW, a limiting factor for pros or enthusiasts wanting full editing latitude.

In sum, for image quality you can trust in diverse lighting - TG-870 wins hands down. The TL240 may still be a good budget pick for daylight travel and casual snaps.

Display and User Interface: Finding Your Image Preview Comfort Zone

The TG-870 features a 3-inch tilting LCD with 921k dots, while the TL240 sports a larger but lower resolution 3.5-inch fixed touchscreen with 230k dots. The TG-870’s higher resolution panel makes framing and reviewing crisp, and the tilting mechanism is a boon for low or overhead shots, which can be tricky with fixed screens.

While the TL240’s touchscreen is an early adopter feature for this category (2010), it’s not as responsive or fine-detailed as modern touch interfaces. I found the TG-870’s physical buttons combined with the tilt screen quicker and more satisfying for manual adjustments, especially under sunlight.

If you’re shooting a lot of selfies or vlogging, neither camera supports front-facing or selfie screens (surprise, both are geared more toward traditional photography). However, the TG-870’s tilt screen offers more compositional flexibility.

Performance Under the Hood: Autofocus, Burst, and Shutter Speeds

The TG-870 leverages the TruePic VII processor, delivering quick startup, autofocus, and 7 fps burst shooting - a notable feature in this price and size range. It uses contrast-detection autofocus with face and eye detection, which helps portrait shooters nail critical focus on eyes and faces.

Conversely, the TL240’s AF is contrast-based only, lacks face or eye detection, and its burst feature is practically non-existent (listed as N/A). Maximum shutter speed on the TG-870 hits 1/2000 s, helping with fast action, while the TL240 maxes out slower at 1/1500 s.

For shooting moving subjects like kids, pets, or sports, the TG-870 will give you fewer missed opportunities. Samsung’s TL240 might frustrate you if you’re expecting speedy tracking.

Durability and Environmental Sealing: Going Beyond the Images

One of the standout TG-870 selling points, especially for travelers and outdoor fans, is its environmental sealing: waterproof to 15m, shockproof from heights up to 2.1m, freezeproof down to -10°C, and crushproof up to 100 kgf. If you’re into hiking, beach trips, or poolside snaps, this robustness is a game-changer.

The TL240 has no such rugged features - treat it as your delicate indoor or city stroll companion.

Lenses and Zoom Capabilities: How Far Can You Reach?

The fixed lenses define an ultracompact's versatility since you cannot swap optics. The TG-870 sports a 21-105 mm (35mm equivalent) f/3.5-5.7 5x zoom, great for wide angles and moderate telephoto.

The TL240 offers a longer 31-217 mm (7x zoom) f/3.3-5.5 lens - very telephoto-heavy, suited for distant subjects but moving further from wide and less ideal for tight interiors or large landscapes.

I personally favor the TG-870’s wider angle for flexibility in casual travel and street shooting. For wildlife or casual zoo trips where far reach matters, Samsung’s zoom wins. Either way, don’t expect the speed or quality of interchangeable lens systems in these ultracompacts - their lenses prioritize compactness over glass performance.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Can You Go?

The TG-870 boasts a CIPA-rated 300-shot battery life using its Li-50B pack. From hands-on experience, this translates to roughly a full day’s shooting for casual users or several hundred images for enthusiasts shooting intermittently.

The TL240’s official battery life isn’t readily available but will be somewhat lower due to older battery chemistry and lack of power-saving design advancements.

Both cameras use single SD card slots (TG-870 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, TL240 uses MicroSD/SDHC), so you have flexibility in storage choices - always good to have extra cards or fast SD cards if you intend to shoot bursts or HD video.

Connectivity and Video Recording: Modern Convenience?

The TG-870 features built-in Wi-Fi and GPS for geotagging - nice inclusions for travel photographers wanting to log their location and remotely control the camera via smartphone apps. HDMI output is available on both for live-view and playback on large screens.

Samsung’s TL240 has no wireless connectivity and no GPS, which feels dated even by 2010 standards.

Video-wise, TG-870 shoots Full HD 1080p at 60 fps in MPEG-4/H.264, while the older TL240 maxes out at 720p 30 fps in Motion JPEG format. The TG-870’s higher-quality codec and frame rate make it more versatile for casual videography.

Neither camera has microphone or headphone jacks nor advanced video features - but TG-870 gives a slight edge for amateur videographers.

Genre-Specific Use Cases: How They Fare Across Photography Styles

When breaking down genre suitability, both cameras have clear niches.

Portrait Photography:

• TG-870’s eye detection autofocus provides greater focus accuracy on faces, along with a wider aperture at the wide end for reasonable background blur.
• TL240 lacks face detection and has a narrower aperture, less ideal for creamy bokeh effects.

Landscape Photography:

• TG-870 wins on sensor dynamic range, better detail retention, and weather sealing to brave the elements.
• TL240’s longer zoom spells less field of view variety, and its CCD struggles with shadows.

Wildlife Photography:

• TL240’s long 7x zoom is tempting, but TG-870’s faster autofocus and higher burst rate beat it for quick-moving critters. Distance limits apply for both, though.

Sports Photography:

• TG-870's 7 fps burst and faster shutter give better chances of decent captures.

Street Photography:

• TL240’s smaller footprint and discreet look lean in its favor. TG-870’s rugged build is bulkier but still street-viable.

Macro Photography:

• Both can focus down to ~1 cm, but TG-870’s optical stabilization helps handheld macro shots.

Night/Astro Photography:

• TG-870’s higher ISO range and sensor tech provide cleaner results.

Video:

• TG-870’s 1080p60 gives more flexibility.

Travel Photography:

• TG-870’s GPS and waterproofing appeal for adventure travel.
• TL240 shines for light packers.

Professional Work:

• Neither supports RAW or interchangeable lenses, limiting professional scope, but TG-870 edges with better exposure controls and durability.

Real-World Sample Images: Color, Sharpness, and Detail

Olympus TG 870 front Olympus TG 870 screen back Samsung TL240 screen back

Side-by-side image crops show the TG-870 yields sharper detail, more vibrant and accurate colors, and improved low-light usability. The TL240’s images tend to appear softer with slightly less contrast but still usable for social media or casual prints.

Overall Performance and Value Assessment

Taking everything into account:

• TG-870 scores higher in image quality, autofocus, ruggedness, and video features.
• TL240 offers longer zoom range, a larger touchscreen (albeit basic), and smaller size but trails technologically.

Given the price gap (~$280 vs ~$170 street), the TG-870 justifies its premium with sturdier build and more versatile features. The TL240 might attract photographers constrained by budget but looking for a stylish, easy-to-use travel pocket camera with zoom reach.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Longevity

Olympus engineered the TG-870 as a workhorse for the outdoors. Its sealing specs stand out - expect durability in rain, snow, or accidental drops. This translates to a longer useful life and value retention for active photographers.

Samsung’s TL240, while elegant, should be treated gently - dust or splashes could be its undoing.

Usability, Interface, and Ergonomics: How They Feel in Practice

TG-870’s combination of buttons and tilt screen hits a sweet spot for photographers who want quick access and framing flexibility. The menus are intuitive, and the touchscreen absence isn't a setback.

TL240’s touchscreen enables direct image browsing and some shooting controls but can slow you down when rapid adjustments are needed.

Lens Ecosystem and Accessories

Ultracompacts are fixed-lens beasts - no lens swaps here. Both cameras accept standard accessories like filters (though Panasonic-like threaded mounts are absent), tripods, and external flashes aren’t options.

The attached lens on TG-870 is generally sharper wide-angle; TL240’s longer zoom enables distant compositions at the expense of wide and low-light speed.

Battery and Storage: Practical Considerations

TG-870’s rechargeable Li-ion battery is standard and offers about 300 shots, typical for ultracompacts. The included charger or USB charging via cable makes travel easier.

Samsung’s older battery tech and lack of stated battery life might raise concerns on extended outings.

Both accept single cards, but note TG-870 supports SDXC for larger capacity - you might want that if shooting lots of HD video.

Connectivity: Sharing and Tethering Capabilities

TG-870’s built-in Wi-Fi and GPS enable easy image sharing and shooting with smartphones - a big plus in today’s connected age. GPS tagging is subtle but valuable for travel record-keeping.

The TL240’s lack of wireless connectivity feels dated now. Images must be offloaded via USB or card reader only.

The Final Word: Which Ultracompact Should You Choose?

To recap:

Who should buy the TG-870?
If your priority is rugged versatility, outdoor adventure, or reliable image quality in varied lighting conditions, this camera is a sensible pick. Its added durability, superior imaging, and video performance make it a better companion for photo enthusiasts wanting quality and resilience in an ultracompact package.

Who should consider the TL240?
If you’re on a strict budget and favor portability with a long zoom for casual shooting - especially urban, travel, or day-to-day use - the TL240 delivers solid daylight performance and a neat touchscreen. Just manage your expectations around low light and build resilience.

Final Recommendations by Genre and Use Case

• Portraits: TG-870 with eye detection autofocus and better image quality
• Landscapes: TG-870 for wider angle and better dynamic range
• Wildlife: Favor TG-870 for AF speed but TL240 for extra zoom reach
• Sports: TG-870 for burst shooting and faster shutter
• Street: TL240 for smaller, lighter body and discreetness
• Macro: TG-870 wins due to stabilization and focus precision
• Night/Astro: TG-870 for superior high ISO handling
• Video: TG-870 for 1080p60 capture and compression efficiency
• Travel: TG-870 for weather resistance and GPS, TL240 for light packing
• Professional Work: Neither ideal, but TG-870 better for casual pro use

I hope this hands-on comparison helps clear the fog for your purchase choice. Both cameras have their charm, but my money goes with the Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 for overall capability, resilience, and value - especially when considering long-term use and photo quality. If your budget or style points you towards the TL240, it will still serve well for many photographic adventures. Happy shooting!

More in-depth gear talk and tested reviews await - so don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or topics you want dissected next.