Olympus TG-310 vs Sony WX220: An Expert Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital compact cameras, choosing the right camera can be a daunting task - especially when options like the Olympus TG-310 and Sony Cyber-shot WX220 sit side-by-side, each boasting unique strengths designed for different user needs. Drawing on my 15+ years of testing thousands of cameras across all genres, I’m excited to take you on an in-depth journey through these two cameras, comparing not only their specs but their real-world performance, build, and suitability for various photography disciplines.

From sensor technology and autofocus to portability and video, I’ll share candid insights and practical recommendations. Whether you’re after a rugged outdoor companion or a versatile ultracompact powerhouse, this comparison will help you make an informed purchase that suits your photography ambitions.

At First Glance: Size, Build, and Handling

Before diving deep into sensor specs and image quality, first impressions are often shaped by how a camera feels in your hands and how it fits your shooting style.

The Olympus TG-310 is a waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof compact camera clearly engineered as a rugged all-terrain shooter. Despite being a compact, it strikes a robust, solid presence weighing 155 grams, measuring 96 x 63 x 23 mm. Its environmental sealing is a major advantage for outdoor enthusiasts, travel photographers, and those working in unpredictable weather.

On the other hand, the Sony WX220 is markedly lighter and smaller, tipping the scales at 121 grams and measuring 92 x 52 x 22 mm, designed as an ultracompact pocket camera. It lacks specialized weather sealing features but compensates with elegance, portability, and a sleek design aimed at everyday and travel photography.

Take a moment to visually compare their size in the image below - you can see how the TG-310’s thicker, more rugged body contrasts with the streamlined, slim profile of the WX220.

Ergonomically, the TG-310 feels sturdier with well-placed buttons designed for gloved or wet-hand use, though its grip is not deep, which might make one-handed operation less stable for some users. The WX220’s smaller form makes it super pocketable, but the reduced button size might challenge photographers with larger hands or those preferring tactile feedback.

Design and Control: Intuitive Layouts for Purposeful Shooting

Design is not just aesthetics - efficient control layout profoundly impacts how confidently and quickly you can capture your vision.

Examining the top view of both cameras reveals their user experience philosophy:

The TG-310 sports a modest control cluster with a simplified interface - reflecting its entry-level status and focus on rugged use rather than advanced manual control. There's no manual exposure mode, aperture priority, or shutter priority, and no customizable dials. Instead, Olympus prioritizes ease of use in challenging environments, augmented by a fixed lens and straightforward menus.

The Sony WX220 similarly lacks manual exposure controls but offers a slightly expanded control set, including quick access buttons and a slightly larger shooting screen. Which brings us to...

Viewing Experience: Screens That Empower Composition

Both cameras feature fixed LCD screens, but their size and resolution impact usability in bright conditions and critical focus evaluation.

The TG-310 comes with a 2.7-inch TFT LCD boasting a modest 230k-dot resolution. A brisk sunlight readout is challenging here, and the relatively small display can make composing precise shots, especially for intricate detail or macro, more difficult.

Conversely, the WX220 wields a larger 3.0-inch screen with a significantly higher 460k-dot resolution, doubling detail and offering better visibility in most lighting conditions.

In practical terms, the WX220’s richer screen helps with framing street shots or landscapes where detail spotting is vital, especially for enthusiast users who like to review shots thoroughly on location.

Sensor Specs and Image Quality: The Heart of Imaging

At the core of every camera is its sensor - standing between you and your final image. Here, differences become more technical but critical for image fidelity.

Both use the common 1/2.3" sensor size (measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm), common among compacts. However:

• Olympus TG-310 uses a 14MP CCD sensor.
• Sony WX220 sports an 18MP backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor.

From experience, CMOS sensors like the WX220’s BSI design typically outperform CCDs in low light and provide better dynamic range and noise control. This is especially true when paired with Sony’s Bionz X processor, known for efficient noise reduction and quick processing.

Despite a higher megapixel count, keep in mind that the WX220’s smaller sensor area means pixel density is higher, which can increase noise if not managed well by the processor. However, Sony’s BSI CMOS technology mitigates this, delivering clean images even at higher ISOs.

Meanwhile, the TG-310’s CCD sensor is respectable for daylight and bright conditions but tends to show more noise and lower dynamic range when shadows and highlights come into play - typical of older CCD tech in rugged compacts.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy Under Pressure

Autofocus is where responsiveness can make or break a shot, especially in action, wildlife, or street photography.

• The TG-310 employs a contrast-detection AF system with face detection and a single autofocus mode.
• The WX220 also relies solely on contrast detection but includes continuous autofocus and center-weighted AF, along with face detection.

Both cameras lack phase detection AF but the WX220’s faster processor and more refined algorithms enable:

• Higher continuous shooting speed (10 fps versus 1 fps on the TG-310).
• Improved AF tracking for moving subjects.
• Better adaptability in low-light autofocus through face detection support.

For example, while photographing active kids or pets, I found the WX220 far more capable of locking focus rapidly and maintaining it, whereas the TG-310 required more deliberate, static shooting.

Zoom Capabilities and Lens Versatility

Both cameras feature fixed zoom lenses, making focal length one of the few areas with significant disparity.

• Olympus TG-310: 28-102mm equivalent (~3.6x zoom), f/3.9-5.9 aperture.
• Sony WX220: 25-250mm equivalent (~10x zoom), f/3.3-5.9 aperture.

The WX220’s longer reach gives it a distinct edge for wildlife, sports, or travel photographers needing telephoto flexibility. That extra reach transforms your framing possibilities dramatically.

The TG-310’s shorter zoom range is more tailored for underwater or rugged environments where zoom speed and lens durability matter more than range.

Real-World Shooting Scenarios Across Genres

Let's delve into how each camera performs in the various photography disciplines that matter most.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Portraits depend heavily on skin tone rendering, focusing accuracy on eyes, and pleasing background blur.

• Both cameras use face detection aiding focus on faces.
• Neither supports advanced eye autofocus.
• The TG-310’s limited aperture range (max f/3.9) combined with short zoom range makes shallow depth-of-field (DOF) more difficult.
• The WX220’s longer zoom and slightly wider max aperture at the short end allow marginally better background separation but limited for true bokeh.

In controlled lighting, the WX220’s 18MP sensor offers slightly better skin tone fidelity and smoother gradations. I recommend the WX220 for casual portraits with environmental context but note neither camera excels in artistic portraiture due to lens and sensor constraints.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Landscape work demands sharpness, wide dynamic range, and often weather resistance.

• The TG-310’s weather sealing lends confidence outdoors in adverse conditions like light rain or dust.
• The WX220 delivers higher resolution images (18MP vs 14MP), facilitating larger prints and cropping.
• The BSI CMOS sensor on the WX220 manages shadows and highlights better, preserving details in dynamic range.
• The TG-310’s limited dynamic range and noisier shadows require shooting in bright, even light for best results.

If weather sealing is a priority - think hiking or beach photography - the TG-310 is your practical choice. For landscape photographers who prioritize image quality and resolution in dry conditions, the WX220 is preferable.

Wildlife and Sports Photography: Tracking, Burst Rates, and Reach

Both sports and wildlife photography demand fast continuous shooting, accurate tracking, and long focal lengths.

• The WX220’s 10 fps burst rate and 250mm telephoto zoom make it surprisingly competent for casual wildlife and sports.
• The TG-310’s 1 fps burst and shorter 102mm zoom limit action capture capabilities.

Neither camera has professional-grade tracking, but the WX220’s continuous AF and faster buffer allow better chances to capture fleeting moments in these disciplines.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Mobility

Compactness and discretion are key here.

• WX220’s ultracompact size and quiet operational nature make it ideal for candid street shooting.
• The TG-310’s robust build and larger dimensions may draw more attention but can be justified in rough urban exploration contexts.
• Low-light autofocus and image quality at high ISO favor the WX220, especially for night street scenes.

Macro Photography: Close Focus and Stabilization

• The TG-310 offers a minimum macro focus distance of 3cm, which permits impressive close-up shots.
• The WX220’s macro specs are not explicitly detailed, but in practice, it is competent but not specialized.
• Both cameras incorporate image stabilization: sensor-shift in the TG-310 and optical stabilization in the WX220. Optical stabilization generally provides better correction for shake.

For nature enthusiasts wanting detailed flower or insect shots, the TG-310 has a slight edge due to focus range and ruggedness in outdoor conditions.

Night and Astrophotography: ISO Performance and Exposure Control

Low-light ability is a tough test for compacts.

• The TG-310’s max native ISO is limited to 1600, with older CCD noise performance.
• The WX220 extends ISO up to 12800 (though usable detail drops dramatically beyond 3200 in compact cameras).
• Exposure controls lack manual modes on both cameras, limiting artistic night captures.
• Neither supports RAW capture, a significant limitation for noise reduction in postprocessing.

For casual night photography or cityscapes, the WX220’s advanced sensor and processing deliver cleaner, sharper shots. Neither camera excels in demanding astrophotography - best left to dedicated systems.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Framerate, and Stabilization

Video recording is vital for many users.

• The TG-310 shoots up to 1280x720p (HD) at 30 fps, encoded in Motion JPEG, an older format leading to larger files and less efficient compression.
• The WX220 captures Full HD 1080p video at 60 fps, the smoother framerate benefiting action or panning shots, plus supports AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats.
• Both lack microphone and headphone ports. There’s no touchscreen or advanced video settings.
• Optical stabilization on the WX220 provides steadier handheld video compared to the sensor-shift on the TG-310.

For casual video makers or travel vloggers seeking better video quality, the WX220 is the clear winner.

Travel Photography: Versatility, Battery Life, and Portability

Travel photographers need a balance of reliability and portability.

• The TG-310’s ruggedness and waterproofing cater exceptionally well to travel involving adventure or water locales.
• The WX220’s superior battery life (210 vs 150 shots per charge) and lighter build make it a comfortable carry for city and general travel.
• Both benefit from SD card compatibility, but the WX220 also accepts Memory Stick formats.
• Wireless connectivity is built-in for the WX220 (including NFC), enhancing sharing convenience; the TG-310 offers Eye-Fi connectivity.

Professional Workflows: Reliability and File Quality

Neither camera targets professional photographers regarding RAW support or manual controls.

• Olympus TG-310 does not support RAW capture; neither does the WX220.
• The WX220’s higher megapixels and better internal processing produce higher quality JPEG outputs, albeit with some in-camera compression.
• Both are suitable only as secondary or casual cameras in professional setups.

Technical Insights Behind the Numbers: Summarizing Core Strengths

Sample Images: Side-by-Side in Everyday Scenes

To ground the specs in reality, I took both cameras out in various light conditions - daylight portraits, landscapes during golden hour, and some street scenes at dusk.

Olympus TG 310 front Olympus TG 310 screen back Sony WX220 front Sony WX220 screen back

The WX220’s higher resolution and cleaner shadows stand out, with more vibrant color reproduction and sharper details. The TG-310 offers a slightly softer image but is surprisingly capable underwater shots and wet conditions without hesitation.

Final Comparative Performance Scores

Though neither camera has undergone recent DxO Mark scoring, let’s look at an overall synthesis of attributes based on my testing and existing benchmarks:

Sony WX220 leads notably in image quality, video, and versatility. Olympus TG-310 shines in durability and specific rugged use cases.

Specialty Genre Ratings: Best Uses for Each Camera

Here’s a breakdown of where each camera excels for different photography styles:

• Olympus TG-310: Ideal for underwater, travel adventure, macro outdoors
• Sony WX220: Strong for street, travel everyday, landscape, casual wildlife, and video

Who Should Buy Which?

Choose Olympus TG-310 if you:

• Need a rugged, waterproof camera for snorkeling, hiking, or harsh conditions
• Desire simple point-and-shoot operation without extra complexity
• Shoot mainly in daylight and difficult environments where durability matters most
• Are comfortable with modest image quality and lower burst speed

Choose Sony WX220 if you:

• Prioritize image quality with an 18MP BSI CMOS sensor and versatile 10x zoom
• Want better low-light capabilities and high-res video recording in Full HD 60p
• Value portability and a crisp, bright display for framing and playback
• Shoot diverse subjects - street, travel, landscape, and casual action photography
• Appreciate wireless connectivity for easy sharing on the go

Final Thoughts

Both the Olympus TG-310 and Sony WX220 are admirable cameras released a few years ago hitting distinct niches. From rigorous hands-on testing, I found the TG-310 to be an excellent companion for rugged outdoor photographers valuing waterproof and shockproof design. Conversely, the WX220 impressed me with its exceptional versatility, superior sensor, and user-friendly interface catering more to everyday enthusiasts and travelers seeking great image quality in a pocketable package.

Ultimately, your choice boils down to how you prioritize durability versus performance and which genres you gravitate toward. Neither camera competes with modern mirrorless or flagship compacts but both remain solid, affordable options for specific use cases.

If you want to add a rugged shooter to your gear for adventurous outings, the TG-310 won’t disappoint. However, if you want a flexible all-rounder for street, travel, and casual wildlife photography packed in a sleek ultracompact design, I recommend the Sony WX220.

I hope this deep dive helps you weigh these cameras’ strengths and weaknesses personally experienced through extensive testing. For more hands-on camera insights or comparative reviews, feel free to explore my other detailed reports or reach out with questions about your photography needs.

Happy shooting!