Olympus TG-5 vs Samsung NX5

On this page, we are reviewing the Olympus TG-5 versus Samsung NX5, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the TG-5 (12MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is very comparable but the TG-5 (1/2.3") and NX5 (APS-C) provide different sensor size.

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The TG-5 was released 7 years after the NX5 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus TG-5 being a Compact camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving into a complete comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the TG-5 grades vs the NX5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Tough TG-5 and Samsung NX5. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-5 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

For those who are going to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-5 has physical measurements of 113mm x 66mm x 32mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Samsung NX5 has sizing of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus TG-5 versus Samsung NX5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the TG-5 compared to the NX5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the TG-5 and NX5 is 90 and 80 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to imagine the gap in sensor dimensions merely by seeing specifications. The image underneath will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-5 and NX5.

To sum up, the two cameras have different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The TG-5 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult and the Samsung NX5 will show more detail as a result of its extra 3MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger TG-5 provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.