Olympus TG-3 vs Panasonic S1

On this page, we are reviewing the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic S1, former being a Waterproof while the other is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap between the image resolutions of the TG-3 (16MP) and S1 (24MP) and the TG-3 (1/2.3") and S1 (Full frame) have totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The TG-3 was unveiled 5 years prior to the S1 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus TG-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the TG-3 matches up against the S1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Tough TG-3 & Panasonic Lumix DC-S1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus TG-3 Gallery & Panasonic S1 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera often, you will need to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-3 features physical dimensions of 112mm x 66mm x 31mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") having a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Panasonic S1 has sizing of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") and a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic S1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have at that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the TG-3 vs the S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the TG-3 and S1 is 90 and 54 respectively.

Normally, it is very hard to envision the contrast between sensor measurements only by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the TG-3 and S1.

Clearly, both of these cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The TG-3 having a tinier sensor will make getting bokeh more challenging and the Panasonic S1 will offer more detail having an extra 8MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images a bit more aggressively. The older TG-3 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.