Olympus TG-3 vs Sony A350

Here, we will be contrasting the Olympus TG-3 vs Sony A350, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the TG-3 (16MP) and the A350 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the TG-3 (1/2.3") and A350 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The TG-3 was revealed 5 years later than the A350 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-3 being a Compact camera and the Sony A350 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go right into a detailed comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the TG-3 scores vs the A350 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Tough TG-3 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A350. The full galleries are available at Olympus TG-3 Gallery and Sony A350 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera often, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-3 comes with physical measurements 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 Sony A350 has measurements of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") and a weight of 674 grams (1.49 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-3 vs Sony A350 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the TG-3 versus the A350.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-3 and A350 is 90 and 62 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to envision the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reading through a spec sheet. The visual here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-3 and A350.

As you can see, both of those cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The TG-3 using its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Olympus TG-3 will give greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more modern TG-3 will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.