Olympus TG-3 vs Sony a1

Its time to take a deeper look at the Olympus TG-3 vs Sony a1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Sony. There exists a big gap between the resolutions of the TG-3 (16MP) and a1 (50MP) and the TG-3 (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) posses different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The TG-3 was introduced 7 years earlier than the a1 and that is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus TG-3 being a Compact camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick summary of how the TG-3 grades versus the a1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Tough TG-3 and Sony Alpha a1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus TG-3 Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera, you should factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus TG-3 comes with outside measurements of 112mm x 66mm x 31mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") along with a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs) whilst the Sony a1 has dimensions of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Examine the Olympus TG-3 vs Sony a1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the TG-3 versus the a1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-3 and a1 is 90 and 61 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizing simply by reading through technical specs. The photograph underneath might offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-3 and a1.

As you have seen, the two cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The TG-3 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh harder and the Sony a1 will resolve more detail using its extra 34 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older TG-3 is going to be behind in sensor tech.