Olympus TG-3 vs Panasonic S1

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic S1, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the TG-3 (16MP) and S1 (12MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The TG-3 was announced 3 years after the S1 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a simple summary of how the TG-3 matches up against the S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Tough TG-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-3 Gallery and Panasonic S1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus TG-3 offers physical dimensions of 112mm x 66mm x 31mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") with a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs) whilst the Panasonic S1 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Check out the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic S1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the TG-3 and the S1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the TG-3 and S1 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizes just by reading technical specs. The image below might provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-3 and S1.

As you can tell, both of the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different MP. You should count on the Olympus TG-3 to offer greater detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The fresher TG-3 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.