Olympus TG-4 vs Samsung NX5

Here, we are comparing the Olympus TG-4 and Samsung NX5, former being a Waterproof while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the TG-4 (16MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is fairly comparable but the TG-4 (1/2.3") and NX5 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The TG-4 was announced 4 years later than the NX5 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-4 being a Compact camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a concise overview of how the TG-4 grades versus the NX5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Tough TG-4 & Samsung NX5. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-4 Gallery & Samsung NX5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-4 has exterior dimensions of 112mm x 66mm x 31mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Samsung NX5 has measurements of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") along with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-4 and Samsung NX5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the TG-4 vs the NX5.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the TG-4 and NX5 is 90 and 80 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to visualise the difference in sensor sizing only by checking out specs. The visual here will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-4 and NX5.

All in all, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The TG-4 having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more difficult and the Olympus TG-4 will show greater detail with its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop images way more aggressively. The newer TG-4 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.