Olympus TG-2 iHS vs Panasonic XS1

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Panasonic XS1, former is a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a large difference between the sensor resolutions of the TG-2 iHS (12MP) and XS1 (16MP) but they possess the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The TG-2 iHS was manufactured 6 months after the XS1 and they are of a similar age. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick overview of how the TG-2 iHS scores vs the XS1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Tough TG-2 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus TG-2 iHS Gallery & Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

When you are looking to travel with your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-2 iHS comes with physical dimensions of 111mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.1") along with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Panasonic XS1 has sizing of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") having a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Look at the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Panasonic XS1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the TG-2 iHS versus the XS1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the TG-2 iHS and XS1 is 91 and 97 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor dimensions just by reviewing specs. The picture underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the TG-2 iHS and XS1.

All in all, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Panasonic XS1 to offer extra detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures a little more aggressively.