Olympus TG-3 vs Panasonic GF7

Below is a extensive assessment of the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic GF7, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the TG-3 (16MP) and the GF7 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the TG-3 (1/2.3") and GF7 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor measurements.

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The TG-3 was manufactured 10 months earlier than the GF7 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a thorough comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the TG-3 matches up versus the GF7 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Tough TG-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-3 Gallery and Panasonic GF7 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-3 offers exterior measurements of 112mm x 66mm x 31mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") and a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Panasonic GF7 has measurements of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic GF7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the TG-3 versus the GF7.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the TG-3 and GF7 is 90 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to picture the difference in sensor measurements just by seeing technical specs. The photograph below will give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-3 and GF7.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit different sensor measurements. The TG-3 uses the smaller sensor which should make obtaining shallow depth of field tougher. The older TG-3 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.