Olympus TG-870 vs Sony NEX-5T

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus TG-870 versus Sony NEX-5T, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the TG-870 (16MP) and the NEX-5T (16MP) is relatively similar but the TG-870 (1/2.3") and NEX-5T (APS-C) offer different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The TG-870 was announced 2 years later than the NEX-5T and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony NEX-5T being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the TG-870 matches up versus the NEX-5T with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870 and Sony Alpha NEX-5T. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus TG-870 Gallery and Sony NEX-5T Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-870 comes with exterior measurements of 113mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.1") and a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5T has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Examine the Olympus TG-870 versus Sony NEX-5T in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the TG-870 compared to the NEX-5T.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the TG-870 and NEX-5T is 91 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to picture the difference between sensor sizing simply by going over a spec sheet. The graphic underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-870 and NEX-5T.

As you can see, the 2 cameras feature the identical resolution albeit different sensor sizing. The TG-870 uses the tinier sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field trickier. The younger TG-870 should have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.