Olympus TG-3 vs Sony HX5

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus TG-3 and Sony HX5, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Sony. There exists a huge gap among the resolutions of the TG-3 (16MP) and HX5 (10MP) and the TG-3 (1/2.3") and HX5 (1/2.4") come with totally different sensor size.

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The TG-3 was manufactured 3 years later than the HX5 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the TG-3 scores versus the HX5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Tough TG-3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The entire galleries are available at Olympus TG-3 Gallery and Sony HX5 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera often, you need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus TG-3 offers external 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 HX5 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus TG-3 and Sony HX5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using during that time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the TG-3 versus the HX5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the TG-3 and HX5 is 90 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizing only by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph below may give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-3 and HX5.

As you can see, both of those cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The TG-3 due to its larger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF simpler and the Olympus TG-3 will provide extra detail due to its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The fresher TG-3 is going to have a benefit in sensor tech.