Olympus TG-630 iHS vs Panasonic G3

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus TG-630 iHS versus Panasonic G3, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a huge gap among the sensor resolutions of the TG-630 iHS (12MP) and G3 (16MP) and the TG-630 iHS (1/2.3") and G3 (Four Thirds) boast different sensor dimensions.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The TG-630 iHS was introduced 19 months later than the G3 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-630 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the TG-630 iHS matches up vs the G3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus TG-630 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The whole galleries are available at Olympus TG-630 iHS Gallery and Panasonic G3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus TG-630 iHS comes with outside dimensions of 98mm x 66mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.6" x 0.9") and a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Panasonic G3 has specifications of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") and a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

See the Olympus TG-630 iHS versus Panasonic G3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the TG-630 iHS and the G3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the TG-630 iHS and G3 is 94 and 83 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizing only by looking through specifications. The graphic underneath might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-630 iHS and G3.

To sum up, the 2 cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The TG-630 iHS having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF harder and the Panasonic G3 will render greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more modern TG-630 iHS should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.