Olympus TG-820 iHS vs Panasonic GX9

In this article, we will be contrasting the Olympus TG-820 iHS and Panasonic GX9, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a significant gap among the image resolutions of the TG-820 iHS (12MP) and GX9 (20MP) and the TG-820 iHS (1/2.3") and GX9 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The TG-820 iHS was brought out 7 years earlier than the GX9 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-820 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a brief overview of how the TG-820 iHS scores vs the GX9 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus TG-820 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-820 iHS Gallery and Panasonic GX9 Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera, you should factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus TG-820 iHS provides physical dimensions of 101mm x 65mm x 26mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.0") along with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Panasonic GX9 has proportions of 124mm x 72mm x 47mm (4.9" x 2.8" x 1.9") with a weight of 407 grams (0.90 lbs).

Compare the Olympus TG-820 iHS and Panasonic GX9 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is the front view scale comparison of the TG-820 iHS and the GX9.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-820 iHS and GX9 is 92 and 82 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions simply by checking out technical specs. The image below might give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the TG-820 iHS and GX9.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The TG-820 iHS because of its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field tougher and the Panasonic GX9 will provide greater detail having its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged TG-820 iHS will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.