Olympus TG-310 vs Sony NEX-F3

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Olympus TG-310 and Sony NEX-F3, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the TG-310 (14MP) and the NEX-F3 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the TG-310 (1/2.3") and NEX-F3 (APS-C) possess different sensor sizes.

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The TG-310 was revealed 19 months prior to the NEX-F3 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-310 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-F3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a simple overview of how the TG-310 scores vs the NEX-F3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus TG-310 and Sony Alpha NEX-F3. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-310 Gallery and Sony NEX-F3 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus TG-310 comes with outside dimensions of 96mm x 63mm x 23mm (3.8" x 2.5" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) and the Sony NEX-F3 has specifications of 117mm x 67mm x 42mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 314 grams (0.69 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-310 and Sony NEX-F3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the TG-310 versus the NEX-F3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the TG-310 and NEX-F3 is 94 and 86 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by looking at specifications. The image here will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the TG-310 and NEX-F3.

To sum up, the two cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The TG-310 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Sony NEX-F3 will resolve more detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged TG-310 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.