Olympus TG-5 vs Panasonic GF1

On this page, we are comparing the Olympus TG-5 vs Panasonic GF1, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the TG-5 (12MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the TG-5 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) have different sensor measurements.

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The TG-5 was introduced 7 years later than the GF1 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus TG-5 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summation of how the TG-5 grades versus the GF1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Tough TG-5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus TG-5 Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus TG-5 features external dimensions of 113mm x 66mm x 32mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Panasonic GF1 has proportions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus TG-5 vs Panasonic GF1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the TG-5 compared to the GF1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-5 and GF1 is 90 and 85 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to visualize the gap in sensor sizing merely by going through technical specs. The graphic below should give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-5 and GF1.

As you have seen, both of the cameras have the same megapixels but different sensor sizing. The TG-5 has got the smaller sensor which will make getting shallow depth of field trickier. The fresher TG-5 should have an advantage in sensor tech.