Olympus Tough TG-870 vs Tough TG-4 Comparison
Olympus Tough TG-870
Olympus Tough TG-4
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Brand | Olympus | Olympus | |
Model | Tough TG-870 | Tough TG-4 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 06, 2016 | April 13, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  Compact | Compact | |
Camera Size | |||
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The Olympus Tough TG-870 edges out the Olympus Tough TG-4 with a score of 51/100 compared to 49/100. Both cameras are compact and were released in 2016 and 2015, respectively. The TG-870 is a more affordable option at $279, while the TG-4 was launched at $379. They share similar dimensions, with the TG-870 measuring 113 x 64 x 28mm and the TG-4 at 112 x 66 x 31mm. However, the TG-870 is lighter, weighing 221g, while the TG-4 weighs 247g.
The TG-870’s higher score and lower price make it a more appealing choice for consumers. Although the TG-4 may have its advantages, it is not reflected in the score. Ultimately, the Olympus Tough TG-870 stands as the better camera.
Olympus Tough TG-870 vs Tough TG-4 Overview and Optics
The Olympus Tough TG-870 narrowly wins in the optics comparison with a score of 53/100, while the Olympus Tough TG-4 scores 52/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as having 16 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, a TruePic VII processor, a DXOMARK score of 74 for the sensor, a 1/2.3″ sensor size, a fixed lens mount, and image stabilization.
The TG-870 edges out the TG-4 in terms of shooting speed, offering 7 frames per second compared to the TG-4’s 5 frames per second. This advantage allows the TG-870 to capture fast-moving subjects with more ease and precision, making it a better choice for action photography.
On the other hand, the TG-4 does not offer any significant advantages in optics over the TG-870. Both cameras have the same sensor type, processor, and image stabilization capabilities. The only difference is the slightly slower shooting speed of the TG-4, which may not be a deal-breaker for some users.
To conclude, the Olympus Tough TG-870 is the better camera in terms of optics primarily due to its faster shooting speed. The TG-4 does not offer any notable advantages over its counterpart. However, the difference between the two cameras is minimal, with only one point separating their scores. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between the Olympus Tough TG-870 and the Olympus Tough TG-4.
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Optics
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Olympus Tough TG-870
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Olympus Tough TG-4
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP | 16 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4608 x 3456 px | 4608 x 3456 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm | 6.17 x 4.55 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  1/2.3” | 1/2.3” | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps | 5 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Fixed | Fixed | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | TruePic VII | TruePic VII | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  4:3 | 4:3 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 125 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 6,400 | 6,400 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 125 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 12800 | 12800 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 4 s | 4 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 2000 s | 1/ 2000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1 | 1 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | None | None |
Olympus Tough TG-870 vs Tough TG-4 Video Performance
The Olympus Tough TG-870 outperforms the Olympus Tough TG-4 in video capabilities with a score of 70/100 compared to the TG-4’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD maximum video resolution and 1920 x 1080 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, both cameras have time-lapse functionality built-in, allowing for creative video capture.
The TG-870 surpasses the TG-4 in terms of maximum video frame rate, offering 60fps compared to the TG-4’s 30fps. This difference means the TG-870 can capture smoother and more detailed videos, especially in fast-moving scenes or during action shots. This higher frame rate also allows for better slow-motion playback, providing more flexibility in post-processing and video editing.
On the other hand, the TG-4 does not have any significant advantages over the TG-870 in video capabilities. Both cameras share the same maximum video resolution, dimensions, and time-lapse functionality. The lower score of the TG-4 is due to its inferior maximum video frame rate.
Considering these points, the Olympus Tough TG-870 is a superior choice for those prioritizing video performance. Its higher frame rate allows for smoother and more detailed video capture, making it better suited for action and slow-motion shots. Meanwhile, the Olympus Tough TG-4 falls short in this aspect, offering no significant advantages over the TG-870. Therefore, the TG-870 is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities.
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Video
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Olympus Tough TG-870
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Olympus Tough TG-4
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 60 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MPEG-4, MOV, H.264 | H.264, MOV, Motion JPEG |
Olympus Tough TG-870 vs Tough TG-4 Features and Benefits
The Olympus Tough TG-870 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 54 out of 100, while the Olympus Tough TG-4 scores 49. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, the absence of a touchscreen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth. However, there are differences between the two models that contribute to the TG-870’s higher score.
The TG-870 boasts a superior screen resolution of 921,000 dots, compared to the TG-4’s 460,000 dots. This higher resolution allows for a more detailed and clearer image display on the camera’s screen. Additionally, the TG-870 is equipped with a flip screen, which provides greater flexibility and convenience for capturing images at different angles. This feature is not present in the TG-4.
Although the TG-4 falls short in screen resolution and flip screen, it still shares essential features with the TG-870, such as GPS and WIFI, allowing for seamless geotagging and easy file sharing. The absence of Bluetooth in both models is not a significant drawback, as WIFI provides sufficient connectivity options for most users.
Considering the differences and similarities between the Olympus Tough TG-870 and the Olympus Tough TG-4, the TG-870 stands out as the better camera in terms of features. Its higher screen resolution and the presence of a flip screen give it an edge over the TG-4. However, the TG-4 remains a viable option for users who prioritize shared essential features, such as GPS and WIFI, over additional convenience provided by the TG-870.
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Features
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Olympus Tough TG-870
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |   | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 460,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Olympus Tough TG-870 vs Tough TG-4 Storage and Battery
The Olympus Tough TG-4 wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 21/100, compared to the TG-870’s score of 16/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as having one memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The TG-4 outshines the TG-870 in battery life and storage options. It delivers 380 shots per charge, thanks to its LI-92B battery, while the TG-870 provides 300 shots using its Li-50B battery. Additionally, the TG-4 has internal storage, giving users more flexibility.
However, the TG-870 has no significant advantages in storage and battery over the TG-4. The longer battery life and additional storage option make the TG-4 a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions and versatile storage needs.
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Storage and Battery
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Olympus Tough TG-870
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, internal storage | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | Li-50B | LI-92B | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 300 shots | 380 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Olympus Tough TG-870
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Olympus Tough TG-4
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Scores
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Olympus Tough TG-870
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Olympus Tough TG-4
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Olympus Tough TG-870 vs Tough TG-4 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Olympus Tough TG-870 or the Olympus Tough TG-4:
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User Scores
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Olympus Tough TG-870
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Olympus Tough TG-4
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