Olympus TG-2 iHS vs Sony HX5

In this article, we are contrasting the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Sony HX5, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the TG-2 iHS (12MP) and the HX5 (10MP) is very comparable but the TG-2 iHS (1/2.3") and HX5 (1/2.4") use different sensor sizing.

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The TG-2 iHS was introduced 3 years later than the HX5 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a complete comparison, below is a brief summation of how the TG-2 iHS scores vs the HX5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Tough TG-2 iHS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-2 iHS Gallery and Sony HX5 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-2 iHS enjoys exterior measurements of 111mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Sony HX5 has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Sony HX5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the TG-2 iHS vs the HX5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the TG-2 iHS and HX5 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing just by checking out a spec sheet. The graphic here should offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-2 iHS and HX5.

As you can see, both of those cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The TG-2 iHS with its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus TG-2 iHS will provide more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The fresher TG-2 iHS provides an edge when it comes to sensor technology.