Olympus TG-2 iHS vs Pentax X-5

In this article, we will be reviewing the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Pentax X-5, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Pentax. There is a considerable difference among the image resolutions of the TG-2 iHS (12MP) and X-5 (16MP) but they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The TG-2 iHS was revealed 11 months later than the X-5 so they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-2 iHS being a Compact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a brief overview of how the TG-2 iHS grades versus the X-5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Tough TG-2 iHS & Pentax X-5. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-2 iHS Gallery & Pentax X-5 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-2 iHS offers exterior dimensions of 111mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Pentax X-5 has sizing of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") having a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Pentax X-5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the TG-2 iHS versus the X-5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the TG-2 iHS and X-5 is 91 and 65 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing simply by seeing a spec sheet. The visual underneath will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the TG-2 iHS and X-5.

As you can see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Pentax X-5 to show greater detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The younger TG-2 iHS provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.