Olympus TG-5 vs Panasonic GX1

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus TG-5 vs Panasonic GX1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the resolutions of the TG-5 (12MP) and GX1 (16MP) and the TG-5 (1/2.3") and GX1 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor size.

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The TG-5 was revealed 5 years later than the GX1 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-5 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a thorough comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the TG-5 scores versus the GX1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Tough TG-5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus TG-5 Gallery and Panasonic GX1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus TG-5 has physical dimensions of 113mm x 66mm x 32mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GX1 has specifications of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus TG-5 vs Panasonic GX1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the TG-5 vs the GX1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the TG-5 and GX1 is 90 and 87 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to see the contrast in sensor measurements merely by researching a spec sheet. The visual underneath will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the TG-5 and GX1.

As you can see, each of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The TG-5 having a smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic GX1 will render more detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots way more aggressively. The younger TG-5 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.