Olympus TG-820 iHS vs Sony A850

In this article, we are evaluating the Olympus TG-820 iHS vs Sony A850, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Advanced DSLR by brands Olympus and Sony. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the TG-820 iHS (12MP) and A850 (25MP) and the TG-820 iHS (1/2.3") and A850 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The TG-820 iHS was announced 23 months later than the A850 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-820 iHS being a Compact camera and the Sony A850 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the TG-820 iHS matches up against the A850 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus TG-820 iHS and Sony Alpha DSLR-A850. The whole galleries are available at Olympus TG-820 iHS Gallery and Sony A850 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera often, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus TG-820 iHS features physical measurements of 101mm x 65mm x 26mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Sony A850 has proportions of 156mm x 117mm x 82mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 3.2") with a weight of 895 grams (1.97 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus TG-820 iHS vs Sony A850 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at that moment. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the TG-820 iHS compared to the A850.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the TG-820 iHS and A850 is 92 and 54 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to see the difference in sensor sizing just by viewing technical specs. The graphic below will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-820 iHS and A850.

As you have seen, both of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The TG-820 iHS having a smaller sensor will make getting bokeh trickier and the Sony A850 will render greater detail with its extra 13 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more modern TG-820 iHS is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.