Olympus TG-1 iHS vs Sony HX300

Following is a comprehensive review of the Olympus TG-1 iHS versus Sony HX300, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Sony. There is a huge difference among the sensor resolutions of the TG-1 iHS (12MP) and HX300 (20MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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

The TG-1 iHS was revealed 9 months prior to the HX300 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus TG-1 iHS being a Compact camera and the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the TG-1 iHS grades vs the HX300 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Tough TG-1 iHS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-1 iHS Gallery and Sony HX300 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera, you'll have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-1 iHS comes with physical measurements of 112mm x 67mm x 30mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") along with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Sony HX300 has sizing of 130mm x 103mm x 93mm (5.1" x 4.1" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 623 grams (1.37 lbs).

Compare the Olympus TG-1 iHS versus Sony HX300 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the TG-1 iHS compared to the HX300.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the TG-1 iHS and HX300 is 91 and 63 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizes simply by going through specs. The picture underneath should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-1 iHS and HX300.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different megapixels. You should anticipate the Sony HX300 to show extra detail because of its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images a bit more aggressively. The more aged TG-1 iHS will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.