Olympus TG-5 vs Sony W550

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Olympus TG-5 versus Sony W550, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the TG-5 (12MP) and the W550 (14MP) is very similar and they use the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The TG-5 was launched 5 years after the W550 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus TG-5 being a Compact camera and the Sony W550 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the TG-5 scores against the W550 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Tough TG-5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W550. The complete galleries are available at Olympus TG-5 Gallery and Sony W550 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus TG-5 has got 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) while the Sony W550 has measurements of 94mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of 110 grams (0.24 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-5 versus Sony W550 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the TG-5 vs the W550.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the TG-5 and W550 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizes just by reading specifications. The picture below will provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-5 and W550.

Plainly, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Sony W550 to deliver more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The younger TG-5 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.