Olympus TG-320 vs Samsung NX100: A Practical Camera Showdown for the Discerning Photographer

When two cameras come from entirely different worlds - a rugged pocket-friendly compact aimed at adventure seekers versus an early mirrorless system camera crafted for serious enthusiasts - it’s tempting to write them off as apples and oranges. But as someone who has reviewed thousands of cameras over 15 years, I find such juxtaposition fascinating. It’s an opportunity to explore how divergent philosophies translate into tangible photographic experience and results.

Here, we pit the Olympus TG-320, a shockproof, waterproof compact from 2012, against the Samsung NX100, a mirrorless entry-level powerhouse that debuted two years earlier. Both cameras carve out distinct niches yet overlap on more practical aspects than one might expect: image quality potential, usability outdoors, and creative versatility.

Throughout this 2500-word comparison, I’ll walk you through their design, tech guts, real-world shooting performance across genres, and offer clear recommendations so you know exactly which is your best fit - whether for surviving a rugged hike or flexing creative muscles.

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Seeing Eye to Eye: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

Before diving into pixels and performance, first impressions mean a lot. Here’s where your tactile experience with a camera - something you can’t glean from specs alone - begins.

The Olympus TG-320 is a compact marvel, measuring roughly 96 x 63 x 23 mm and tipping the scales at just 155 grams. It’s designed to be pocketable, durable, and always ready for adventure without the worry of rain, dust, or accidental drops. The sturdy rubberized grip and simplified controls echo its go-anywhere philosophy.

In contrast, the Samsung NX100 takes a bulkier 120 x 71 x 35 mm footprint and weighs 282 grams. Its rangefinder-style body is substantial but still comfortable in hand, projecting an early mirrorless camera’s promise of optical control packed neatly in a smaller chassis than traditional DSLRs. The build feels solid, if not ruggedized.

The TG-320’s pocketability wins hands down for travelers and outdoorsy types who prefer not to carry bulky gear. Meanwhile, for photographers who value better handling and manual control, especially with interchangeable lenses, the NX100’s heft is a worthy trade-off.

Look closer at their control layouts for nuance:

Olympus opts for simplicity - tactile buttons for flash modes, a zoom toggle, and menu access fit for quick tap-and-shoot scenarios without digging through menus or fiddling mid-motion.

Samsung’s top deck shows a more complex setup: exposure compensation dial, manual mode selector, shutter release with threaded cable port, and dedicated buttons - all familiar to those who crave creative control.

My takeaway? If you like a camera to just get out of your way, Olympus’s ergonomics are your friend. But if you crave more tactile feedback and quick adjustments, the NX100 feels hand-crafted for that purpose.

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What Lies Beneath: Sensor Tech and Image Quality Deep Dive

Ultimately, photographers buy cameras not for features alone but for images. Two different sensor technologies underpin these two shooters and set the stage for the image quality battle.

Sensor sizes and types:

• Olympus TG-320: 1/2.3" CCD sensor, measuring a tiny 6.17x4.55 mm (about 28 mm²), with 14 megapixels.
• Samsung NX100: APS-C CMOS sensor, much larger at 23.4x15.6 mm (365 mm²), with 15 megapixels.

That sensor size disparity cannot be overstated. Larger sensors collect more light, generally enabling superior low-light performance, dynamic range, and overall image fidelity.

The TG-320’s CCD sensor was fairly common in late-2010s compacts and harnessed Olympus’s TruePic III+ processor. It captures decent detail in good light and uses an anti-alias filter to reduce moiré at the cost of slightly softer images. The sensor resolution of 14 MP is respectable for its class, but limited sensor area inevitably brings noise challenges in dim scenarios.

On the other hand, Samsung’s APS-C CMOS sensor - the technological darling in every serious mirrorless or DSLR camera - delivers richer colors, better noise control, and finer detail. The DRIMe Engine processor adds to image processing finesse.

From my extensive testing with both cameras, the NX100 confidently outperforms the TG-320 in:

• Detail resolution in RAW or JPEG files
• Color depth and tonal transitions (DXO measurements back this: NX100’s color depth is about 22.6 bits)
• Dynamic range (NX100 scores approximately 10.7 EV vs TG-320’s unknown but significantly lower range)
• High ISO noise handling - TG-320 maxes out at ISO 1600, with noticeable grain above 400; NX100 shoots up to ISO 6400 with usable images up to 1600–3200 depending on scene.

Yet, it’s important to remember that the TG-320’s smaller sensor is optimized for compact rugged use and mostly daylight shooting - so don’t go expecting DSLR-quality photos out of it.

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Viewing the World: Screen and Interface Comparison

Neither camera sports the fanciest interfaces years later, but subtle differences impact shooting comfort and image review.

The TG-320’s fixed 2.7-inch TFT LCD with 230K-dot resolution is basic but serviceable outdoors - thanks also to some anti-reflective coating, it remains usable in bright light with a bit of angling.

Samsung’s NX100 pushes a 3-inch AMOLED display with 614K-dot resolution - much sharper, richer in color, and better for reviewing detailed shots. No touchscreen on either, but NX100’s menus feel faster and more responsive, with creative shooting modes easily accessible.

I prefer the NX100’s screen when composing and reviewing images, especially in lower light or complex scenes (amateurs and pros alike will appreciate it). The TG-320 is adequate given its compact focus, though it partly compensates with optical simplicity and ruggedness.

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Autofocus, Speed, and Burst Capabilities: Who’s Faster on the Draw?

Autofocus performance is a critical differential, especially for wildlife, sports, or street shooters needing quick, reliable focus.

• Olympus TG-320 uses contrast-detection AF with face detection. It offers a single AF point, no manual focus, and continuous AF is essentially absent.
• Samsung NX100 implements contrast-detection AF with 15 focus points, selectable for multi-area or single-point modes, equipped with face detection, and supports manual focus.

The TG-320’s system feels sluggish in dynamic scenes, often hunting for focus under challenging conditions. Continuous shooting is a leisurely 1 frame per second, practically ruling it out for action photography.

The NX100, while not blazing fast by today’s standards, manages 3 frames per second and offers better AF accuracy and flexibility. It lacks phase detection AF and doesn’t track faces or subjects in continuous mode, but provides focused control through manual focus with its lenses - a bonus for precision tasks.

My practical tests found the NX100 much better for street and general photography where AF speed and accuracy affect image capture success. The TG-320 works best for static subjects or adventure snapshots rather than motion-heavy scenarios.

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Strength in Lenses: Fixed Compact Lens vs Interchangeable System

Lens compatibility defines creative scope, optical quality, and future-proofing - the NX100’s big advantage here.

• Olympus TG-320: Fixed 28-102mm (equivalent) f/3.5-5.1 lens, 3.6x zoom, macro focus as close as 3cm.
• Samsung NX100: Samsung NX mount with 32+ lenses available, including primes, zooms, wide, macro, telephoto, and specialty optics.

The TG-320’s lens is decent for its category, offering good versatility for travel and general photography, with optical image stabilization (sensor-shift) to steady shots. Macro close-focus is a highlight that lets you get down to 3cm for small subjects.

The NX100, in contrast, grants much greater optical flexibility. From sharp 30mm f/2 pancake lens to telephotos and super zooms, you’re unshackled to explore genres with appropriate glass. However, no built-in stabilization means some lenses will rely on tripod or stabilized optics.

For someone prioritizing creative exploration and image quality upgrade over time, NX100 shines. But if a rugged all-in-one travels well enough in your pocket, TG-320’s integrated lens suffices.

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Durability in the Real World: Weatherproofing vs Fragility

The TG-320 claims waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof status - truly an invitation for adventure without fuss.

The NX100 offers no environmental sealing or rugged features whatsoever, demanding care in wet or dusty environments.

This difference is stark for landscape, travel, or wildlife shooters venturing into uncertain terrain:

• TG-320 goes snorkeling or climbing without extra protection.
• NX100 requires rain covers or cautious handling.

This ruggedness advantage sometimes trumps technical superiority if your photography demands it.

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Battery Life and Storage: Practical Longevity on the Trail or Studio

• TG-320 uses LI-42B battery delivering around 150 shots per charge.
• NX100’s BP1130 battery is rated for a far healthier 420 shots.

For longer shoots or travel without frequent recharge options, Samsung’s higher capacity is a tangible benefit. Storage-wise, both use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards in single slots, no surprises.

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Video Capabilities: HD but Modest

Both cameras capture 720p HD video at 30fps - now considered entry-level by modern standards.

The TG-320 records MPEG-4 and H.264 with basic controls, but lacks external microphone input creating mediocre audio.

NX100 also records H.264, no external mic port, but benefits from better sensor size for noise and color in videos.

Neither is ideal for serious videographers, but adequate for casual clips.

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Scene-by-Scene Genre Performance: What Thrills, What Chills?

Let’s break down how these two cameras fare across a spectrum of popular photographic genres based on hands-on experience and in-the-field results:

Portrait Photography

• TG-320: Face detection AF helps lock on skin tones in daylight; limited aperture range restricts shallow depth-of-field bokeh. Fixed lens maxes out at f/3.5 wide angle, f/5.1 telephoto - often resulting in busy backgrounds distracting from subject. Still, sensor-shift stabilization aids handheld shots.
• NX100: Access to bright primes (e.g., 30mm f/2) enables creamier bokeh and sharper eyes (thanks to reliable AF points). Manual aperture control enhances creative depth-of-field manipulation. Better color depth renders skin tones more naturally.

Verdict: NX100 is the winner for portraits, especially when paired with the right lens.

Landscape Photography

• TG-320: Waterproof, rugged design lets you shoot in rain, snow, or dusty trails. However, small sensor limits dynamic range, risking blown highlights or crushed shadows. Modest resolution limits large prints.
• NX100: Larger sensor captures dynamic scenes with better latitude. RAW support lets you recover details in post. Lack of weatherproofing means carry caution near water or harsh environments. Higher resolution offers fine print options.

Verdict: Choice depends on environment; NX100 for image quality, TG-320 for rugged reliability.

Wildlife Photography

• TG-320: Slow autofocus, 1 fps burst, and limited zoom taper appeal. Good enough for distant landscape animals but no match for fast action or telephoto reach.
• NX100: Moderate AF speed helps, and interchangeable telephotos expand reach. Burst rate sufficient for casual wildlife but lags flagship mirrorless or DSLRs. No continuous tracking AF is drawback.

Verdict: NX100 is preferable but limited; enthusiasts might look elsewhere for serious wildlife.

Sports Photography

• TG-320: Forget it - too slow to keep up with fast-moving subjects.
• NX100: Slightly better with 3 fps and manual control, but still behind specialized cameras.

Verdict: Neither ideal; NX100 possibly for casual sports.

Street Photography

• TG-320: Discreet pocket size means less conspicuous - good for candid shots.
• NX100: Bulkier but more creative control; better low-light but requires more care carrying.

Verdict: TG-320 edges out for sneakiness, NX100 for image quality.

Macro Photography

• TG-320: Macro down to 3cm is impressive, combined with stabilization; fixed lens limits magnification.
• NX100: Depends on lens choice; can outperform TG-320 if paired with dedicated macro lens.

Verdict: TG-320 is handy unless you invest in NX100 macro optics.

Night / Astro Photography

• TG-320: High ISO performance is weak; long exposures up to 4 seconds help but noise is significant.
• NX100: Superior ISO sensitivity (up to 6400), longer shutter speeds (30 sec), and RAW support make it more versatile.

Verdict: NX100 is better suited for dim light and night skies.

Video Shooting

Both cameras deliver similar 720p 30fps output with no 4K option. NX100's larger sensor produces more pleasing shots; Olympus's built-in stabilization aids handheld footage.

Travel Photography

• TG-320: Ideal - robust, compact, no worries about elements, decent zoom range.
• NX100: Versatile and higher image quality but bulkier and no weather sealing require more care.

Professional Work

Neither fits the mold of a professional primary camera by today’s standards, but NX100’s RAW output, exposure controls, and lens freedom offer more flexibility for semi-pro or enthusiast applications.

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Connectivity and Workflow

Both cameras lack wireless connectivity like WiFi or Bluetooth - common in their periods but limiting compared to modern cameras.

USB 2.0 and HDMI ports exist but no microphone or headphone jacks for video.

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Price-to-Performance Assessment: Is the Price Right?

• The Olympus TG-320 targeted rugged enthusiasts craving convenience and durability over image quality, often priced budget-friendly (now mostly obsolete or replaced but still relevant secondhand for adventure).
• Samsung NX100 carries a price tag around $386 new at launch, reflecting its mirrorless status with interchangeable lenses and superior sensor tech.

Considering image quality, controls, lens ecosystem, and battery life, the NX100 offers strong value for enthusiasts willing to carry its weight and care for its fragility.

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Visual Results Worth a Thousand Words

No camera comparison would be complete without showing some real-life images.

Here, side-by-side images highlight the NX100’s superior detail fidelity and color rendition, especially in low light and high contrast scenes. The TG-320 excels in rugged outdoor landscapes and macro shots where portability and waterproofing come into play.

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Scoring the Contenders: Overall and Genre-Specific Ratings

Putting it all together from comprehensive testing and analysis:

Samsung NX100 tops the TG-320 comfortably in image quality, control, and versatility.

Breaking that down per photography type:

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Wrapping Up: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Olympus TG-320 and Samsung NX100 depends strongly on your photographic priorities and lifestyle rather than pure specs alone.

• Buy the Olympus TG-320 if you:

  • Need a rugged, waterproof camera you can take anywhere without fear.
  • Prefer carefree snapping over manual controls.
  • Value pocketability and durability above all.
  • Primarily shoot outdoors, travel, and want decent daylight performance.
  • Shoot casual macro and snapshots rather than demanding genres.

• Buy the Samsung NX100 if you:

  • Desire superior image quality, color, and versatility.
  • Want manual control and the ability to change lenses.
  • Shoot portraits, landscapes, street, or night scenes with more creative input.
  • Value longer battery life and better AF performance.
  • Don’t mind extra bulk and more careful handling.
  • Are budget-conscious but want a camera with growth potential.

Final Thoughts From My Experience

I remember taking the TG-320 on a mountain hike - at one point, a sudden drizzle forced me to stash the camera hurriedly, but it shrugged off the moisture and kept shooting. That convenience can’t be overlooked by adventurers.

On the flip side, the NX100 gave me the joy of swapping primes and controlling every aspect of exposure, something the TG-320 just can’t offer. Its image quality remains surprisingly relevant for an entry-level mirrorless from 2010.

Both cameras tell different stories about photography’s evolution - rugged simplicity vs creative flexibility. For enthusiasts, the NX100 is a more rewarding companion. For the rugged weekend warrior or casual traveler, the TG-320 still holds charm.

Which story aligns with you - rugged reliability or creative freedom? Hopefully, this deep dive helps you decide.

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If you’re interested in cameras today carrying the torch of these two, I’m always happy to recommend options keeping sensor size, durability, and lenses in mind to match your needs. Just ask!