Olympus TG-820 iHS vs Sony Cyber-shot WX30: Rugged Compacters in Head-to-Head

When scouting for a robust all-round compact camera, both Olympus and Sony offer tempting options for enthusiasts hunting for dependable, everyday tools that stretch beyond typical point-and-shoots. The Olympus TG-820 iHS and Sony Cyber-shot WX30 entered the market around 2011-2012, each carving out their niche with contrasting strengths. After hands-on testing over weeks in varied scenarios - from hiking rugged trails to urban street strolls - we’re diving deep into how these rivals stack up practically, technically, and value-wise.

I’ve personally assessed both cameras’ size, ergonomics, sensor performance, lenses, autofocus, image quality, video, and endurance. This comparison aims to equip you with the insights you need - whether you’re a traveler, casual shooter, or enthusiast wanting a tough, pocketable companion.

Let’s delve into how these two compact candidates perform, starting with their physical presence.

Hands-On with Size and Build: Rough and Ready Versus Sleek and Slim

The Olympus TG-820 iHS makes an immediate impression as a ruggedized beast. Measuring 101x65x26 mm and weighing 206g, it’s built to brave knocks, dust, water (rated waterproof), crush, and freezing temperatures without flinching. Olympus’s environmental sealing here is extensive - IP-certified waterproofing and shockproof construction meaningfully add to outdoor reliability. These traits made it a clear choice during my rough outdoor shoots where durability was paramount.

In contrast, the Sony WX30 is noticeably smaller and lighter at 92x52x19 mm and just 117g - slick but decidedly less robust. It lacks any weather sealing, making it less suited to rainforest hikes or snowy treks. However, its compactness and low weight gave me a definite edge when discretion and portability were critical, such as quick street shoot-outs or traveling light around cities.

When comparing ergonomics, I found the TG-820’s bulk made it easier to grip securely, especially with gloves or wet hands. The Sony’s smaller body sometimes required a two-handed approach for steadiness, though its slimness meant stashing it in small pockets with less hassle.

Both cameras possess a simple control layout; neither offers extensive manual dials due to their entry-level positioning. Olympus uses a straightforward button+dial combo with clearly marked controls, ideal for rugged use. Sony incorporates a minimalist, touchscreen-enabled interface with some customization options, catering to quick access and casual shooting.

Summary:

• Olympus TG-820: Rugged, weatherproof, shockproof - purpose built for demanding environments.
• Sony WX30: Slimmer, lighter, more pocketable - but fragile without environmental sealing.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Size Isn’t Everything, But It Matters

Both models employ a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with nearly identical physical dimensions (6.17x4.55 mm). Still, they diverge sharply in resolution and sensor technology:

Sony’s BSI-CMOS technology here gives it a theoretical edge in gathering light efficiently, translating into cleaner images at mid to high ISOs despite a higher pixel density. On real-world testing, the WX30 delivered more detailed shots with better noise control at ISO 800 and below in well-lit conditions, benefiting from the extra resolution.

However, Olympus’s sensor, paired with the TruePic VI image processor, showed respectable color rendition, especially in bright scenes, and held up surprisingly well up to ISO 400. Its maximum ISO 6400 is more a marketing figure - images beyond ISO 1600 are visibly noisy.

Both cameras enforce an antialiasing filter to reduce moiré but slightly soften fine detail. Neither supports RAW capture - a notable limitation if you plan heavy post-processing.

In controlled landscape conditions, Olympus’s images produced punchier colors, a slight advantage for outdoor enthusiasts who want vibrant JPEGs straight from the camera. Sony’s images were more neutral but retained detail nicely.

Summary:

• Sony WX30 offers higher resolution and better noise handling at low to mid ISOs.
• Olympus TG-820 produces vivid color straight from camera but struggles at higher ISO.
• Neither offers RAW - limit post-processing flexibility.

Lens and Focal Range: Versatility in the Field

Lens versatility is crucial as it defines what you can capture without changing gear. Both the TG-820 and WX30 use integrated zoom lenses with similar multipliers (around 5x):

The Olympus’s lens extends slightly longer into the telephoto range, which is beneficial for occasional wildlife or distant subjects. Its standout feature is macro focus down to 1 cm, exceptional in this category - in testing, I captured impressive close-up details of flowers and insects, with rich bokeh separation.

Sony’s f/2.6 wide end is notably faster than Olympus’s f/3.9, providing more light for low-light and shallow depth-of-field shots. That aperture advantage afforded me better control in dim street scenarios. However, the 5 cm macro limit wasn’t quite as close for extreme close-ups.

Both lenses offer optical zoom with image stabilization - sensor-shift in Olympus, optical in Sony. Olympus’s sensor-shift stabilization was effective and consistent for handheld shots, in particular macro and telephoto ranges.

Summary:

• Olympus shines in macro with ultra-close 1 cm focusing and longer telephoto reach.
• Sony excels at wide aperture (f/2.6) for low-light and more natural subject isolation.
• Both offer decent zoom ranges suitable for travel and general photography.

Autofocus System: Speed, Accuracy, and Real-World Usability

Autofocus (AF) is pivotal for catching fleeting moments and nail-sharp details. Both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF, but their implementations diverge:

Olympus includes face detection and AF tracking, making it handy for moving subjects or portraits - features I tested by photographing kids playing. It performed reasonably but occasionally hunted in low light despite stable contrast detection.

Sony’s 9 AF points were more limited, and lacking face/eye detection proved frustrating for portrait work or moving targets; its AF occasionally “froze” on backgrounds, slowing focus acquisition. Conversely, Sony’s live view autofocus was smoother and responsive in bright conditions, helped by the touchscreen focus feature.

Neither supports continuous autofocus for video or stills, limiting tracking at action scenes.

Summary:

• Olympus offers more focus versatility with face detection and tracking for general shooting.
• Sony’s multitouch live view AF is intuitive but limited by fewer AF points and no face detection.
• Both struggle in dim light due to contrast-detection design and lack phase-detection AF.

Image Stabilization: How Steady Can You Get?

Onboard stabilization improves sharpness during hand-held shooting:

• Olympus TG-820 uses sensor-shift image stabilization. This physical movement of the sensor counteracts camera shake effectively across zoom ranges, which I confirmed during macro and telephoto shots. It especially impressed in shaky or slow shutter speed conditions.
• Sony WX30 employs optical image stabilization in the lens. It achieves notable results too but was marginally less consistent at longer focal lengths during my tests.

Practical takeaway: Both systems work well for casual use, but Olympus’s sensor-shift may give a slight edge in challenging lighting.

Display and Viewfinder Experience: Screen Quality and Interface

Both cameras rely exclusively on LCD screens for framing and reviewing images; neither sports an electronic viewfinder.

• Olympus’s 3-inch HyperCrystal III TFT LCD delivers 1030K dots brightness, which makes it clearer and more readable in bright sunlight compared to Sony’s WX30 with a 3-inch XtraFine TFT LCD at 922K dots. This was noticeable on bright days outdoors.
• Sony’s touchscreen enables simple tap-to-focus and menu navigation, adding ease when flicking through settings or focusing on subjects. Olympus lacks any touchscreen facility, relying on physical buttons exclusively.
• Neither screen tilts or articulates, constraining creative angles.

For casual shooting and quick framing, the Sony’s touchscreen added convenience, while Olympus’s brighter screen is better for outdoor visibility.

Shooting Speed and Buffer: Capturing Action

Performance matters when photographing action or fast-moving scenes:

Sony leads in burst shooting with 10 fps, which I tested favorably for capturing brief street moments or children in motion. Olympus’s 5 fps is adequate but less versatile for sequences.

Shutter speed ceilings favor Olympus, allowing better freezing of fast action. However, Sony’s longer minimum shutter speed enables more creative long exposure work without ND filters.

Neither camera offers shutter or aperture priority modes, manual exposure, or RAW - constraining advanced exposure control.

Video Capabilities: Making Moving Memories

For the casual videographer:

Sony’s ability to shoot Full HD at 60 fps means smoother motion capture, ideal for casual slow-motion or sports clips in daylight. Olympus is capped at 30 fps for 1080p, adequate but less fluid for action.

Neither camera supports external audio - limiting sound quality control.

In both models, stabilization is active during recording, which helps handheld footage but does not compare with modern gimbals or higher-end models.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

Battery life was tested under typical shooting:

• Olympus TG-820: CIPA-rated 220 shots per charge (using LI-50B battery).
• Sony WX30: Rated slightly better at 250 shots (NP-BN1 battery).

I found these modest but expected for compacts in this class. For extended trips, carrying spares is advisable.

Both cameras use a single SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slot; Sony expands compatibility to Memory Stick Duo formats.

Software and Connectivity: Sharing and Workflow

Neither camera supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or NFC - unsurprising for their release era, but it limits instant sharing or geotagging.

Both offer USB 2.0 and HDMI output for file transfer and display.

For workflow integration, neither supports RAW files, meaning you must rely on in-camera JPEGs for editing - a limitation for professionals seeking flexible post-processing.

Price-to-Performance: Value in Context

At launch prices, the Olympus TG-820 was near $500, Sony WX30 roughly half that.

• Considering the rugged build and waterproofing, Olympus command a premium appealing to outdoor adventurers.
• The Sony WX30 is a budget-friendly compact with standout resolution and video options for everyday and travel users.

For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing image quality and video, the WX30 presents solid value. The TG-820 justifies its premium if durability and environmental resistance are non-negotiable.

Real-World Photo Comparisons: Seeing Both in Action

Olympus TG 820 iHS front Olympus TG 820 iHS screen back Sony WX30 front Sony WX30 screen back

Side-by-side samples reveal:

• Olympus produces punchier colors and better detail in macro close-ups.
• Sony resolves finer detail at base ISO in daylight and excels in smooth 60 fps video.
• Both struggle in low light with noise and loss of sharpness.

Scoring Their Strengths and Weaknesses

Suitability Across Photography Genres

• Portraits: Olympus wins for face detection but limited bokeh control; Sony’s sharper images and f/2.6 wide help overall.
• Landscapes: Sony’s higher resolution and neutral color edges it; Olympus’s durability good for tough environments.
• Wildlife: Olympus’s waterproof and 140 mm reach better; AF limitations impact both.
• Sports: Sony’s 10 fps burst better for action.
• Street: Sony’s smaller size and quick touchscreen favored.
• Macro: Olympus clear leader.
• Night/Astro: Neither excels; Sony’s BSI technology offers slight low light advantage.
• Video: Sony’s 1080p/60fps wins.
• Travel: Sony preferred for portability; Olympus if ruggedness is a priority.
• Professional Work: Neither is ideal - no RAW, limited controls.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

Pick the Olympus TG-820 iHS if you:

• Need a durable, waterproof camera that can withstand extreme weather, dust, shocks, and freezing temps.
• Prioritize macro and close-up photography with superior focusing.
• Frequently shoot outdoors where exposure to elements is a concern.
• Are okay with modest image resolution and video frame rates.

Opt for the Sony WX30 if you:

• Want a compact, lightweight camera easy to carry all day.
• Desire higher resolution images and superior video performance (1080p @60fps).
• Value a responsive touchscreen interface.
• Have budget constraints but want strong overall image quality in daylight.

Trustworthy Insights From Hands-On Experience

These cameras reflect their era’s engineering focus and target audiences well. The Olympus TG-820 takes a ruggedized approach that will survive real-world abuse, a feature you’ll appreciate if your shooting extends beyond café patios and into rugged nature. The Sony WX30 rewards portability and image sharpness, geared for everyday shooters favoring convenience and image detail.

Neither camera is suited as a professional workhorse due to limited manual controls, no RAW support, and moderate autofocus systems. However, for enthusiasts seeking robust compacts on different price and usage priorities, understanding these differences will ensure you pick a camera that truly fits your photography style.

By carefully analyzing sensor tech, ergonomics, AF, lens capabilities, robustness, and video features, I’ve aimed to provide a clear, experience-backed comparison helping you make an informed choice. Both cameras have strong suits but also clear limitations, so match their attributes to your shooting needs and budget.

If rugged endurance or macro prowess matter most, trust the Olympus TG-820 iHS. For greater image resolution, lighter carry, and better video, the Sony WX30 remains a compelling pick - especially for casual and travel use.

Happy shooting, and be sure you’re buying the best fit for your photography adventures!

Appendix: Summary Tables and Images Used

• Size & Ergonomics:
• Control Layout:
• Sensor & IQ Discussion:
• Screen Comparison:
• Sample Shots:
  Olympus TG 820 iHS front Olympus TG 820 iHS screen back Sony WX30 front Sony WX30 screen back
• Performance Scores:
• Genre Performance Chart: