Olympus TG-320 vs Sony WX300: Hands-On Comparison for the Practical Photographer

When shopping for a compact camera, especially in the budget-friendly zone, deciding between waterproof ruggedness and versatile zoom can be a real head-scratcher. Today, I’m breaking down two seemingly straightforward yet fundamentally different cameras: the Olympus TG-320, a rugged waterproof compact, and the Sony Cyber-shot WX300, a small-sensor superzoom with impressive reach. Both hail from the compact category but serve distinct purposes and appeal to different types of shooters.

Having spent years putting all manner of cameras through their paces - including hundreds of compacts from numerous brands - I’m here to give you the unvarnished truth: the real-world practicalities, technical nitty-gritty, and whether each camera justifies its price and place in your gear bag.

Let’s dive right in.

Getting a Grip: Size, Handling, and Controls

First impressions matter, especially when you’re reaching for your camera on the fly. The Olympus TG-320 embraces the "rugged and ready" ethos with a tough, robust body that’s waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and even freezeproof. The Sony WX300, meanwhile, is slim and more conventional, designed for those who want slick pocket portability without the extra armor.

Both cameras are pocketable, but the TG-320’s thicker, grippier chassis feels like it could survive the occasional tumble into the pool or a rocky trail. The WX300’s sleeker profile and smooth finish make it easier to slip into tighter spaces and pockets but at the cost of environmental protection.

On the control front:

Neither camera offers clubs-for-thumbs ergonomic magic, but the Sony WX300 boasts slightly more tactile traditional controls and a top plate that feels more refined (at least for those used to dedicated zoom levers). The TG-320 keeps things simple – fewer buttons, no exposure compensation dial or modes, just straightforward point-and-shoot functionality, which is a boon for beginners or ‘grab and go’ adventures.

Ergonomics & Controls Verdict:

• TG-320: Rugged handling for outdoor abuse, simple controls.
• WX300: Slimmer, more camera-like handling but no weather sealing.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: Crunching the Numbers

Both utilize a 1/2.3" sensor measuring roughly 6.17x4.55mm - tiny by DSLR or mirrorless standards but par for the course among compacts. The Sony edges out slightly with an 18MP BSI-CMOS sensor compared to Olympus’s 14MP CCD.

This difference is more than just megapixel count. The back-illuminated CMOS sensor in the WX300 typically yields better low-light sensitivity and cleaner images at higher ISOs, whereas the TG-320’s CCD sensor leans more towards daylight shooting with moderate noise performance. Also, the native max ISO on the WX300 is 3200 (versus 1600 for the TG), which translates to better flexibility under dim conditions.

In real-world testing across landscapes and indoor portraits, the WX300’s images come out with slightly greater fine detail (thanks to higher resolution and better processing) and richer colors. But the TG-320 isn’t without charm - it handles outdoor daylight scenes with punch, and its anti-shake sensor stabilization is decently effective for handheld shots.

Bottom line on image quality:

• Sony WX300: Superior resolution and low-light ability; better ISO range.
• Olympus TG-320: Good daylight performance but limited in darker conditions.

LCD and User Interface: See What You Shoot

The WX300 outshines the TG-320 hands down when it comes to screen real estate and resolution.

The Sony packs a 3-inch, 460k-dot display, crisp and bright enough for framing and reviewing images outdoors on a sunny day. The Olympus, by contrast, features a smaller 2.7-inch screen with a modest 230k-dot resolution, making it noticeably grainier and less vibrant.

Neither comes with touchscreens or electronic viewfinders, a reminder of their age and category, but both offer live view for framing.

User interface-wise, the WX300 offers customizable menus, face detection autofocus, and some white balance options. The TG-320, targeting casual users and adventurers, keeps things simple with auto modes and pet timer shutter release – clever for shooting quick critter portraits.

Zoom and Lens Features: Reach vs. Reliability

Here lies a fundamental difference in photographic philosophy:

• Olympus TG-320 offers a 28-102mm equivalent zoom (3.6x optical), aperture F3.5-5.1.
• Sony WX300 boasts a massive 25-500mm equivalent zoom (20x optical), aperture F3.5-6.5.

If reaching out to capture distant wildlife or sports is your aim, the WX300 wins hands down. Its 20x zoom is rare in such a small body and offers fantastic versatility for everything from wide landscapes to tight telephoto shots.

The TG-320’s range is modest but paired with rugged durability and a macro focus capability down to 3cm, making it well-suited for close-up nature shots and general outdoor use.

Optical stabilization is present on both models, but their approach differs: Olympus uses sensor-shift (mechanical compensation within the camera body), and Sony uses optical lens-shift stabilization. Both help reduce blur from hand shake, but in practice, the WX300’s system performs slightly better at longer focal lengths.

Lens & zoom takeaway:

• Sony WX300: Zoom monster with superior reach; suitable for diverse shooting scenarios.
• Olympus TG-320: Reliable, rugged lens setup good for casual and macro outdoor shooting.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Fast Enough?

Autofocus performance can make or break your moment, especially with fast-moving subjects. Both cameras have contrast-detection autofocus systems, known to be slower than phase-detection or hybrid AF systems.

The TG-320 offers face and pet detection, a neat feature that reduces the need for manual intervention, but no continuous AF or manual focus controls. Shooting speed is slow - just 1fps continuous burst rate.

The WX300 has face detection too, plus center-weighted autofocus and improved tracking accuracy. Its burst rate clocks up to 10fps (albeit at reduced resolution or limited buffer depth), which comes in handy for casual sports or wildlife shots.

In real-world outdoor tests, the WX300 locked focus noticeably faster and more accurately on moving targets, while the TG-320 sometimes lagged or hunted in lower light.

Practical AF assessment:

• Sony WX300: Faster and more reliable autofocus, better suited for action.
• Olympus TG-320: Basic AF adequate for snapshots but struggles with rapid subject changes.

Durability and Weather Sealing: The Great Outdoors Camera?

The Olympus TG-320’s sturdy, waterproof chassis is the key selling point. Rated waterproof to 10m, freezeproof to -10°C, and shockproof from drops up to 2m, it’s built for rugged outdoor enthusiasts or families with young kids who might goof around near water and dirt.

The Sony WX300 is a typical compact camera with no weather sealing or rugged build. A spill or drop could be a genuine repair or replacement headache.

For adventurous photographers who prioritize durability and don’t want to baby their camera outdoors, Olympus’s TG line delivers exceptional peace of mind.

Battery Life and Storage: How Many Clicks Per Charge?

Battery life in compact cameras tends to be modest. The Olympus TG-320 delivers roughly 150 shots per charge with its LI-42B battery - respectable for its class but tight if you’re shooting a full day.

The Sony WX300 uses the NP-BX1 battery, known to eke out more shots per charge (manufacturer rates approx 380 shots), making it friendlier for longer shoots or travel.

Both cameras support SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the WX300 also accepts Sony’s proprietary Memory Stick format, which is convenient for existing Sony users.

Connectivity and Extras: Staying Current or Old School?

Here the WX300 pulls ahead with built-in wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), allowing easy image transfer to smartphones or remote control via apps - a big plus for social sharers or those wanting quick uploads.

The TG-320 lacks any wireless features, relying solely on USB 2.0 and HDMI ports for data transfer and playback.

Neither have microphone or headphone jacks, limiting serious video creators.

Video Capabilities: Casual Clips or Semi-Pro?

Video on these cameras is functional but basic:

• Olympus TG-320 records 720p HD video at 30fps using MPEG-4/H.264.
• Sony WX300 goes fuller HD at 1080p/60fps with AVCHD compression.

In practice, the WX300 produces smoother, more detailed footage due to higher resolution and frame rate, despite moderate rolling shutter artifacts common in small sensor compacts.

Neither offer advanced manual video controls, external audio inputs, or 4K capabilities – so these cameras serve more as casual video shooters than hybrid cine tools.

Real-World Uses Across Photography Types

Let’s break down how each camera fares in common photography disciplines:

Portraits

• TG-320: Decent face detection autofocus and pleasing bokeh from wide aperture at short zoom; good for casual people shots outdoors.
• WX300: Higher resolution benefits detail; face detection works well; longer zoom lets you frame candid shots from afar.

Landscapes

• WX300: Wins on higher resolution and wider 25mm wide-angle for sweeping vistas.
• TG-320: Ruggedness encourages outdoor use in harsh environments but limited by 28mm wide focal length.

Wildlife

• WX300: 500mm reach and fast AF make it the go-to choice.
• TG-320: Zoom too limited; better for insects or close subjects.

Sports

• WX300: Superior burst speed and tracking AF help capture action.
• TG-320: Slow continuous shooting limits sports usability.

Street

• WX300: Slim form and long zoom create discreet shooting possibilities; bright screen aids framing in low light.
• TG-320: Bulky and rugged; less stealthy but weatherproof advantage outdoors.

Macro

• TG-320: Macro mode focusing down to 3cm excels for close-up flora and fauna.
• WX300: No specific macro mode; less ideal.

Night / Astro

Neither camera excels here due to small sensors and limited ISO. The WX300’s higher max ISO gives it a slight edge, but expect noise and detail loss.

Video

WX300 delivers better HD and smoother frame rates, suitable for casual video diaries.

Travel

• TG-320: Durable and versatile; perfect for adventure travelers prone to rough conditions.
• WX300: Compact and zoom-friendly; better for urban and cultural travel photography.

Professional Use

Neither camera caters to pros requiring RAW capture or extensive manual controls. Both are more consumer-grade.

Price and Value: What’s Your Budget Getting You?

When released, the Sony WX300 retailed around $330, while Olympus TG-320 came in at a lower price point (often under $200), reflecting their differing target audiences.

The WX300’s higher specs - greater zoom, better sensor, video and connectivity - justify the price premium if you crave versatility.

On the other hand, the TG-320 offers unmatched ruggedness and simplicity for its price, catering well to families and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability over features.

Summarizing Strengths and Tradeoffs

Olympus TG 320 front Olympus TG 320 screen back Sony WX300 front Sony WX300 screen back

Sample images showcase the WX300’s finer details and better exposure control compared to the TG-320’s punchy but noisier output.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the Olympus TG-320 if:

• You need a tough, waterproof camera that can take a beating in rain, snow, or a drop.
• Your photography is casual, focusing on family outings, snorkeling, hiking, or pet portraits.
• You want hassle-free shooting with some macro ability and don’t mind basic image quality.
• Budget is tight and optical zoom range is not a top priority.

Choose the Sony WX300 if:

• You want a compact, lightweight superzoom capable of handling a broad range of subjects - from landscapes to wildlife - without changing lenses.
• You value better image quality, faster AF, and more detailed video.
• Wi-Fi connectivity for sharing shots on the go is important.
• You’re willing to baby your gear a bit more - no sealing or rugged casing here.
• You want a flexible travel camera that covers many photographic bases well.

Parting Wisdom from the Field

In my 15+ years testing cameras, I’ve learned that balance is key. Olympus’s TG-320 is a niche compacter for those who rough it and want peace of mind - think of it as a camera that laughs in the face of splashes and tumbles. The WX300 fits the superzoom enthusiast who needs one do-it-all device for varied scenes with decent image quality.

Neither replaces a serious mirrorless or DSLR, but each serves their market well. The trick is matching the camera to your lifestyle and priorities.

If I had to pick one for general-purpose use, the Sony WX300’s better sensor, longer reach, and superior video make it the smarter, more versatile choice. Meanwhile, for a boisterous weekend at the beach or a snowy mountain trek, Olympus TG-320’s rugged charm is unmatched.

Your move: rugged reliability or zoom versatility?

If you found this comparison helpful, keep an eye out for in-depth shootouts on these categories in future articles. Meanwhile, happy clicking and all the best on your camera journey!