Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic GX8

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic GX8, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a significant gap among the resolutions of the VG-160 (14MP) and GX8 (20MP) and the VG-160 (1/2.3") and GX8 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The VG-160 was unveiled 4 years prior to the GX8 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus VG-160 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summation of how the VG-160 grades against the GX8 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VG-160 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8. The full galleries are available at Olympus VG-160 Gallery and Panasonic GX8 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus VG-160 has exterior dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GX8 has specifications of 133mm x 78mm x 63mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 2.5") along with a weight of 487 grams (1.07 lbs).

Examine the Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic GX8 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the VG-160 against the GX8.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the VG-160 and GX8 is 96 and 74 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by checking out technical specs. The photograph underneath should give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the VG-160 and GX8.

As you can tell, the two cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The VG-160 with its smaller sensor will make getting bokeh more challenging and the Panasonic GX8 will provide greater detail having an extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The older VG-160 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.