Olympus TG-2 iHS vs Sony A290

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus TG-2 iHS versus Sony A290, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the TG-2 iHS (12MP) and the A290 (14MP) is pretty similar but the TG-2 iHS (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) feature different sensor sizing.

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The TG-2 iHS was launched 3 years after the A290 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus TG-2 iHS being a Compact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a short view of how the TG-2 iHS matches up versus the A290 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Tough TG-2 iHS and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The complete galleries are available at Olympus TG-2 iHS Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-2 iHS has got external dimensions of 111mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.1") having a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Sony A290 has measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

See the Olympus TG-2 iHS versus Sony A290 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the TG-2 iHS compared to the A290.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the TG-2 iHS and A290 is 91 and 66 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to picture the difference between sensor dimensions simply by reviewing technical specs. The pic underneath should provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-2 iHS and A290.

As you can tell, both cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The TG-2 iHS due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF trickier and the Sony A290 will offer extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures much more aggressively. The newer TG-2 iHS should have a benefit in sensor innovation.