Olympus TG-830 iHS vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800: Compact Camera Battle for Enthusiasts and Beginners

Choosing the right compact camera can be a challenge, especially when two models target different use cases yet appear similar on paper. In this detailed comparison, I’ve taken a hands-on look at the Olympus TG-830 iHS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800 to help you understand which camera suits your photographic ambitions - whether you’re an outdoor adventurer needing rugged durability or a casual snapshooter looking for simple versatility at an affordable price.

Both cameras sit firmly in the compact category with fixed lenses, but they differ significantly in features, build, and performance. Let’s break down everything you need to know from sensor technology to real-world image quality, and help you make the best choice for your photography needs.

First Impressions and Handling: Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

Before discussing specs and images, the physical feel of a camera is the gateway to your shooting experience. Comfort and intuitive controls impact how often you shoot and your ability to react quickly in various conditions.

Olympus TG-830 iHS: Rugged and Ready for Adventure

The TG-830 iHS is targeted squarely at users who want a camera to endure tough environments. It has robust environmental sealing – waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof, and crushproof – which means you can take it diving, hiking, or skiing and not worry about damage.

Sony W800: Light and Pocket-Friendly

In contrast, the Sony DSC-W800 is designed for casual day-to-day use. It’s thinner and considerably lighter but lacks any rugged protections. It fits easily into a pocket or purse - great for travel or walkabout photography where you prioritize discretion and convenience.

The Olympus TG-830 iHS is noticeably chunkier and built more solidly than the slim Sony DSC-W800, reflecting its rugged design focus.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

The TG-830’s standout feature is its nearly indestructible casing and comprehensive weather sealing. This makes it a dependable companion for landscape, macro, and travel photographers who frequently shoot outdoors under unpredictable conditions.

The Sony W800 has a plastic body with no weather sealing, which means it requires more cautious handling. It’s best suited to indoor and fair weather shooting. That said, its lightweight construction makes it a great grab-and-go camera.

Sensor and Image Quality: Technology and Real-World Results

Sensor Technology and Resolution

Both cameras have a small 1/2.3" sensor size (approx. 6.17 x 4.55 mm), common in compact cameras. The Olympus uses a 16MP CMOS sensor, whereas the Sony employs a 20MP CCD sensor.

The difference in sensor type is crucial. CMOS (as in the Olympus) is more power efficient and generally offers better low-light performance and faster data readout - traits I found beneficial when shooting handheld in dim conditions. CCD sensors like Sony’s are often praised for color accuracy but tend to generate more noise at higher ISOs and have slower response.

Both cameras share the same sensor dimensions, but the underlying technology differs, influencing noise levels and dynamic range.

Resolution and Image Detail

Sony’s 20MP sensor naturally produces higher-resolution files, with maximum images at 5152x3864 pixels versus Olympus’s 4608x3456 pixels. At first glance, Sony’s images contain more detail, especially visible when cropping.

In practice, though, the Olympus’s sensor and lens combination handle noise better, especially beyond ISO 800. I’ve tested images at ISO 1600 and ISO 3200; Olympus files retain more usable detail and less blotchiness.

Lenses: Versatility and Optical Performance

Both cameras feature fixed zoom lenses with similar focal ranges:

• Olympus TG-830: 28-140mm equivalent (5× zoom), f/3.9-5.9
• Sony W800: 26-130mm equivalent (5× zoom), f/3.2-6.4

Sony’s slightly wider maximum aperture at the wide end (f/3.2) offers better light capture in some situations, while Olympus edges on maximum telephoto reach.

The Olympus lens stands out for close-up work: it has a macro focusing distance down to 1cm, allowing remarkably detailed shots of tiny subjects like insects or flowers - a bonus if macro photography is on your agenda.

Handling and Interface: Controls and Display

Both cameras come with fixed LCD screens and no electronic viewfinders, limiting framing flexibility in bright sunlight.

The Olympus TG-830 sports a 3" fixed LCD with 460k dots, significantly sharper and larger compared to Sony’s 2.7" 230k-dot screen. This difference greatly affects live view clarity and reviewing images.

Olympus’s larger and higher-resolution screen aids composition and image checking, while Sony’s screen feels comparatively basic.

Control-wise, both lack manual exposure modes or focus rings. The Olympus offers more autofocus aids: face detection and AF tracking, which Sony includes as well but is more basic in actual responsiveness. Neither supports touchscreen, which is standard in this category.

For those who prize rapid operation, Olympus’s button layout and slightly larger body provide better ergonomics.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed

Despite lacking phase-detection AF, both cameras use contrast-detection AF systems with face detection capabilities.

• Olympus TG-830: Single-shot AF with tracking, known for quick locks even in low light
• Sony W800: Single-shot AF, slower and more prone to hunting under dim conditions

Continuous shooting is limited; Olympus doesn’t specify burst mode, while Sony offers 1 fps continuous shooting - not suitable for action photography enthusiasts.

Video Features

Video recording is where the two diverge sharply:

• Olympus TG-830: Full HD 1080p recording at 60 fps, H.264 codec, HDMI output
• Sony W800: HD 720p at 30 fps, MPEG4 format, no HDMI output

Olympus delivers smooth, high-quality video with decent low-light capability, ideal for casual videographers.

Sony’s video output is limited in resolution and framerate, more suited for short clips and basic family videos.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

The Olympus TG-830 uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (LI-50B), rated for approximately 300 shots per charge under typical use. Sony’s battery life figures are unspecified but generally lower due to the smaller battery size.

Both cameras accommodate SD cards, but Sony supports Memory Stick Duo formats for additional compatibility.

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC - which limits instant sharing capabilities.

Real-World Use Cases: Photography Types

Portrait Photography

• Olympus TG-830 delivers better skin tones with natural color reproduction thanks to its CMOS sensor. Face detection and autofocus tracking help keep subjects sharp. The lens’s bokeh is average but sufficient for isolating faces.
• Sony W800 has adequate face detection but less accurate skin tone rendering and slower focusing.

Landscape Photography

• Olympus’s ruggedness and higher dynamic range make it better suited to harsh environmental shooting. Its 16MP sensor and wider ISO range handle scenes with high contrast well.
• Sony provides a slightly higher resolution but less latitude in dynamic range and no weather sealing.

Wildlife and Sports

Neither camera is ideal for rapid action or wildlife photography due to slow continuous shooting.

• TG-830’s faster, more reliable AF is an advantage for opportunistic wildlife or sports snaps.
• Sony’s sluggish AF and 1 fps burst limit capturing fast-moving subjects.

Street Photography

• Sony W800’s smaller size and lighter weight give it an edge in portability and discretion on the street.
• Olympus is bulkier but more responsive and weatherproof - potentially a better fit for urban street photographers in variable climates or environments.

Macro Photography

• Olympus stands out with a 1cm macro focus distance, allowing extremely detailed close-ups.
• Sony lacks a dedicated macro mode and struggles focusing close.

Night and Astrophotography

• Both cameras’ small sensors constrain low-light capability, but Olympus has better high ISO performance and longer shutter speeds available, making it marginally better in this category.
• Neither supports advanced features like bulb mode or raw capture for night scenes.

Video Recording

• Olympus’s Full HD 60 fps means smoother and sharper video.
• Sony’s 720p at 30 fps is more suited to casual snapshots.

Travel Photography

• The TG-830’s durability and GPS tagging make it a reliable travel partner despite larger size.
• Sony’s pocket-friendly form factor and simple controls are attractive for casual travelers on a budget.

Professional Work

• Neither camera targets professionals; however, Olympus’s superior weather sealing, better video specs, and sensor performance give it a slight edge for casual professional backup or fieldwork in challenging situations.

Sample Images Showcase

Examining actual images from both cameras highlights practical differences in color rendering, detail, and noise handling.

Olympus TG 830 iHS front Olympus TG 830 iHS screen back Sony W800 front Sony W800 screen back

Side-by-side image comparisons show Olympus’s superior handling of noise in shadows and richer color saturation. Sony images are sharper at base ISO but noise becomes prominent quickly.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Olympus’s larger control dials and buttons provide better tactile feedback compared to Sony’s minimalist layout.

Performance Scores and Ratings

Though neither camera has official DXOMark scores, user testing reflects the following:

Olympus scores higher in durability, video capability, and autofocus speed. Sony rates higher for portability and resolution.

Across genres, Olympus excels in travel, landscape, and action, whereas Sony benefits beginners seeking low-cost simple operation.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Buy the Olympus TG-830 iHS if:

• You need a rugged camera for demanding outdoor conditions - hiking, snorkeling, winter sports
• Macro photography interests you due to its impressive close-focusing ability
• You want high-def video recording on the go
• You value better autofocus speed and reliability
• You prioritize durability and extended use without worry

Choose the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800 if:

• You want a compact, budget-friendly camera for everyday casual shooting
• Portability and discreetness are key - street photography, travel with light packing
• Video quality and burst rate are not high priorities
• You don’t require weatherproofing

Final Recommendations

In my extensive time testing compact cameras, the Olympus TG-830 iHS stands out as a trustworthy rugged companion offering solid all-around performance, particularly for users who want more from their compact than just snapshot capability. Its better sensor technology, autofocus, video specs, and macro prowess justify its higher price.

The Sony W800 is an excellent entry-level option, best suited for beginners or those who want simplicity and portability without breaking the bank.

Before purchasing, consider your photography style carefully: if adventure and versatility matter, Olympus wins; if casual convenience rules, Sony delivers.

I hope this detailed hands-on comparison equips you to pick the right camera for your next photographic adventure. Feel free to reach out if you want tested sample images or further clarifications based on your specific photography goals!