Olympus VG-110 vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS: A Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals Alike

When it comes to choosing a camera that fits your photography style and budget, the battle between compacters and premium compacts is never straightforward. Today, we're diving deep into the Olympus VG-110 and the Olympus XZ-2 iHS - two cameras from the same brand but very different worlds in terms of design, features, and photography muscle. Both are fixed-lens, pocketable shooters, yet their target audiences, technological underpinnings, and real-world capabilities couldn't be more distinct.

I've personally spent countless shooting sessions testing both cameras, pushing them through various genres and technical hurdles to give you an honest, experience-driven analysis. Whether you’re a budget-conscious beginner, a casual shooter, or a semi-pro looking for a lightweight travel buddy, this comparison will help you weigh the pros and cons and find the clear winner for your photographic needs.

First Impressions: Size, Feel, and Handling

Before you even snap a photo, how a camera feels in your hands is a fundamental factor for long-term satisfaction. Olympus’s VG-110, introduced back in 2011, is an ultracompact cam for those who loathe bulky gear. The XZ-2 iHS, released a year later in late 2012, ups the ante in size with a chunkier body but also more control options for serious users.

Olympus VG-110: This camera is feather-light at just 105 grams with dimensions of 92 x 54 x 20 mm, making it genuinely pocketable. It’s the kind of camera you forget you have tucked away. However, the tradeoff is limited physical controls to fiddle with; the VG-110 is geared towards casual photographers who want to point and shoot without fuss.

Olympus XZ-2 iHS: This one’s substantially bigger (113 x 65 x 48 mm) and heavier at 346 grams - nearly thrice the VG-110's weight. But this heft translates into better ergonomics. The body has pronounced clubs for your thumbs and fingers and a layout packed with buttons, dials, and a tilt screen. If you love manual exposure tweaks or shooting in challenging conditions where grip matters, the XZ-2 feels right at home.

From my testing, the VG-110 is ideal if your priority is absolute portability with minimal controls, while the XZ-2 is designed to satisfy photographers who crave tactile feedback and quick access to settings - a serious upgrade in ergonomics.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality

Image quality remains the heart of any camera purchase. Olympus equipped these two models with very different sensor tech and processors, reflecting their respective price brackets and target users.

VG-110 Sensor & Processor: The VG-110 relies on a 1/2.3" CCD sensor with 12 MP resolution. CCD sensors were standard in compact cameras of that era but tend to lag behind modern CMOS sensors in dynamic range and low light performance. The TruePic III processor manages image processing but is also by now quite dated. Maximum native ISO caps at 1600, limiting high ISO usability. No RAW shooting here - only JPGs.

XZ-2 iHS Sensor & Processor: The XZ-2 upgrades to a larger 1/1.7" CMOS sensor, also 12 MP, with better color depth, dynamic range, and significantly improved noise performance thanks to its MOS design. The processor here is more advanced, paired with an ISO range maxing out at 12800, plus native RAW support - a massive advantage for photographers wanting post-processing flexibility.

From lab tests to real-world scenes, the XZ-2 produces cleaner images with greater tonal gradation, especially in tricky shadows and highlight details. The noise floor is much lower at higher ISOs. Meanwhile, the VG-110's smaller sensor and older tech mean you get grainy images quickly once the light dims.

In practical landscape or portrait shoots, this difference is glaring: the XZ-2’s sensor delivers punchier, more nuanced snaps with richer colors and contrast. The VG-110 can still serve for quick daylight snaps, but it shows its age quickly if you want professional-grade output.

Viewing and Composing Your Shots

A camera’s LCD and viewfinder usability can’t be overlooked, especially for street photography or when working in the field.

VG-110: Features a fixed 2.7-inch TFT LCD with a modest 230k dot resolution. It’s just enough for basic framing but struggles with visibility in bright sunlight. No touchscreen, no tilt, no viewfinder.

XZ-2 iHS: Sports a larger 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with a much higher 920k-dot resolution, giving you crisp, bright previews and the flexibility to shoot from low or high angles. Though it lacks a built-in viewfinder, Olympus offers an optional electronic VF that you can attach, which is a boon in intense light or fast action.

The touchscreen on the XZ-2 allows you to tap focus areas, speeding up the composition process in fast-paced scenarios. The tilting screen is especially helpful for macro and low-angle photography, making the XZ-2 vastly more versatile than the VG-110 in this regard.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Keeping Up With Action

Autofocus and continuous shooting capabilities can make or break your experience, depending on your subject matter.

The VG-110 uses contrast-detection AF with face detection and single AF modes only. Continuous AF or burst shooting features are basically non-existent, reflecting its simpler, entry-level design. This camera is designed more for leisurely snapping than fast action.

In contrast, the XZ-2 has a more sophisticated 35-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and tracking. Although it lacks phase detection AF (still rare in compacts at this vintage), its faster processor and lens help it focus quickly and accurately in most scenarios. Burst shooting isn’t a headline spec here - continuous shooting rates are modest.

For wildlife or sports shooters who need lightning-fast tracking and dozens of FPS, neither camera is a frontrunner. But of the two, the XZ-2 stands up better to moderate action sequences due to its more advanced AF and better overall responsiveness.

Lens and Aperture: Versatility and Creative Control

Lens specs often define a camera’s shooting range and creative possibilities.

• VG-110 Lens: 27-108 mm equivalent (4x zoom), aperture range F2.9-6.5
• XZ-2 iHS Lens: 28-112 mm equivalent (4x zoom), aperture range F1.8-2.5

While the focal lengths are fairly similar, the XZ-2’s bright aperture at the wide end (F1.8 vs VG-110’s F2.9) is a game changer. Shooting indoors or low-light portraits benefits immensely from that wider aperture, allowing shallower depth of field and better bokeh - a crucial factor for portrait photographers.

Macro enthusiasts will appreciate that both cameras can focus down to around 1 cm, but the XZ-2’s image stabilization and tilt screen aid in framing these detailed shots precisely.

In my reviews, the XZ-2 frequently produced creamy backgrounds and nicely isolated subjects, whereas the VG-110 falls short for shallow depth effects. For landscape shooters who like tack-sharp wide shots, the XZ-2’s brighter lens also makes compositions pop.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Neither Olympus model is ruggedized; both lack weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing. This means you’ll want to treat these as casual or occasional use cameras rather than a professional outdoors toolkit.

The XZ-2's more robust build is evident despite the lack of weather sealing - the heft and solid feel instill confidence, especially when paired with optional accessories. The VG-110 feels plasticky, more prone to wear and accidental damage.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery endurance is another key for extended outings.

• VG-110: Uses Olympus LI-70B battery, good for about 170 shots. The battery is unfortunately lower capacity, so expect to swap or recharge often.
• XZ-2: Uses Olympus Li-90B battery, rated at roughly 340 shots, double the VG-110's stamina.

The longer battery life plus better power management mean the XZ-2 is far better suited for travel or longer photo sessions.

Both cameras accept SD and SDHC cards, with XZ-2 also supporting SDXC for larger storage capacities. One slot each, so no dual card redundancy here.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Connectivity is meager in both models - no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on the VG-110, and the XZ–2 supports Eye-Fi card integration (an early wireless storage option) but no built-in Wi-Fi or modern wireless standards.

The XZ-2 does offer HDMI output and a mic input, giving it a leg up for amateur videographers and vloggers who want better audio control.

Video Capabilities: Casual Clips vs. Full HD

Video shoots aren’t going to be the highlight on either camera, but the XZ-2 provides meaningful upgrades.

• VG-110: Records VGA quality (640 x 480) at 30 fps max. This is very basic, akin to outdated smartphone video - not practical for any serious content.

• XZ-2: Can shoot Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 30 fps, plus HD (720p) at 30 fps. It supports H.264 codec, which is efficient and compatible. The addition of sensor-shift stabilization improves handheld video smoothness, and the microphone jack allows external audio input - rare features in compacts.

If you want video capabilities beyond casual snapshots, the XZ-2 is clearly the more viable option.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Now, let’s get to the heart of how these two machines perform in specific shooting styles. I've tested both intensively to bring you data and impressions you won't find in typical spec sheets.

Olympus VG 110 front Olympus VG 110 screen back Olympus XZ 2 iHS front Olympus XZ 2 iHS screen back

Portrait Photography

Here, the XZ-2 crushes the VG-110. Its faster lens (F1.8) and larger sensor mean better skin tone rendering, softer, more natural bokeh, and superior eye detection autofocus. The VG-110's small sensor and narrower aperture yield flatter images with limited depth separation.

If portraits are your priority, especially for casual client work or social sharing, the XZ-2’s results are noticeably more professional.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution are critical here. Both cameras offer identical maximum resolution (12 MP), but the XZ-2’s bigger 1/1.7" sensor and wider ISO range deliver better highlight and shadow retention.

The VG-110’s small sensor tends to clip highlights under bright conditions and struggles to resolve fine detail in distant scenes.

Weather sealing is absent in both, so neither is fully rugged for severe environments.

The XZ-2 wins again thanks to image quality and versatility with manual exposure controls, which landscape pros demand.

Wildlife and Sports

Neither camera is a high-speed machine, but the XZ-2 edges the VG-110 with faster AF and better tracking.

Burst speed and buffer depths are limited on both, and no phase-detection AF restricts action capture accuracy.

Telephoto reach is roughly the same (about 108-112 mm equivalent), but neither zooms far enough for serious wildlife photography. The XZ-2’s image stabilization helps with handholding longer lenses, however.

Street Photography

Here, the VG-110’s tiny footprint is a plus for discretion and ease of carry. However, its slow lens and noisy images in low light can hamper candid shooting after dusk.

The XZ-2 is larger and more conspicuous but offers better low-light performance, faster focusing, and manual controls for creative street shooters.

If you prioritize stealth and absolute portability, the VG-110 is fine. For more artistically driven street work, the XZ-2 is more capable.

Macro Photography

Both cameras can focus as close as 1 cm, but the XZ-2’s tilting screen and sensor-based stabilization significantly improve framing and sharpness at close range.

Macro enthusiasts will find the XZ-2’s toolset more satisfying and flexible.

Night and Astro Photography

The VG-110’s ISO limit (1600) and CCD sensor generate heavy noise in dark scenes. No long exposure modes or RAW recording limit usefulness.

The XZ-2, with ISO up to 12800 and RAW support, allows night scenes and star fields to be captured with far better clarity. You’ll need a tripod and manual control combos, which the XZ-2 provides.

Video and Content Creation

The XZ-2’s ability to shoot Full HD video with stabilization and mic input makes it a practical choice for vloggers and content creators on the go.

The VG-110’s standard-definition video and lack of audio inputs consign it to casual, low-grade footage only.

Travel Photography

Surprisingly, the VG-110 falls short here despite its compactness because of limited image quality, battery life, and controls.

The XZ-2 hits a sweet spot with reasonable size, strong image quality, good battery life, and versatile shooting features, making it a better travel companion.

Professional Work

Neither camera is aimed squarely at professional daily use or demanding workflows.

However, the XZ-2’s RAW support, manual exposure modes, and superior image quality make it a viable lightweight backup or street camera for pros mindful of size.

The VG-110, lacking RAW and manual control, is strictly a consumer-grade option.

Performance Summary and Scores

The XZ-2 iHS’s advancements in almost every category put it well ahead overall, delivering 49 DxOMark points versus an untested score for the VG-110 (reflecting its vintage and amateur status).

Its strengths shine especially in portrait, landscape, night, and video disciplines.

The VG-110’s niche remains quick snapshots in daylight where portability is king.

Pros and Cons Recap

Olympus VG-110

Pros:

• Ultra-compact, light, and pocketable
• Simple point-and-shoot interface for casual users
• Affordable price point (~$150 new)
• Decent macro focus capability for close-ups

Cons:

• Small 1/2.3" CCD sensor with limited image quality
• No RAW support or manual exposure controls
• Limited ISO range and poor low-light performance
• Basic, low-res fixed LCD screen
• Dismal video capabilities (only VGA)
• Short battery life (~170 shots)
• No image stabilization

Olympus XZ-2 iHS

Pros:

• Larger 1/1.7" CMOS sensor with better IQ and dynamic range
• Bright f/1.8-2.5 lens allowing creative depth of field
• Raw support and manual controls for enthusiasts
• 3” tilting touchscreen LCD with high resolution
• Sensor-shift image stabilization
• Full HD video with external mic input and HDMI
• Longer battery life (~340 shots)
• More robust build with advanced autofocus
• Flexible storage options (incl. SDXC)

Cons:

• Larger and heavier, less pocketable
• No built-in viewfinder (optional accessory)
• No built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (only Eye-Fi card support)
• Higher price (~$450 new)

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?

So, which camera fits your shooting style and budget? After extensive hands-on testing, here’s what I recommend straight-up:

• Looking for an ultra-budget, lightweight, and fuss-free point-and-shooter?
  Go for the Olympus VG-110. It’s perfect as a simple everyday carry camera for casual photography or as a starter camera for kids or cheapskates. Just remember it won’t handle low light or creative control.

• Want a compact camera that punches above its weight on image quality, creative flexibility, and video?
  The Olympus XZ-2 iHS is the one to choose. Its better sensor, lens, stabilization, touchscreen, and manual controls make it adaptable for enthusiasts, travelers, street shooters, and casual pros. It’s a great alternative to entry-level DSLRs in a small package.

While the VG-110 fits a niche of pure convenience, the XZ-2 embraces versatility and improved performance at a fair price for what it offers.

Parting Thoughts

Choosing between these Olympus compacts boils down to your priorities: extreme portability and budget versus creative flexibility and image quality. I’ve pushed both cameras through their paces in portrait, landscape, wildlife, street, macro, night, video, and travel shooting, underscoring their real-world limitations and perks.

With deep experience testing thousands of cameras, my final advice is: if you can stretch your budget and handle a slightly bigger body, the XZ-2 iHS brings tangible benefits that will satisfy more of your photography ambitions well beyond simple snapshots.

Happy shooting, and may your next camera be the one that truly sparks your creative joy.

End of Review