The VG-160 is a 14-megapixel camera with 5x optical zoom and has a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 26mm-130mm. It has a 3-inch LCD (230,000 pixels).
Because of its small size, we consider this model a subcompact.
The VG-160 stores photos and video on SD/SDHC memory cards and has 49MB of in-board storage. It captures images as JPG files at a top resolution of 4288 x 3216 and HD-resolution video as AVI files at a top resolution of 1280 x 720 at 30 fps.
Like most digital cameras, this model comes with a proprietary rechargeable battery.
The image stabilization system for this camera is electronic.
The VG-160 measures 3.9 inches wide by 2.4 inches high by 0.8 inches deep, and weighs 4 ounces (with battery, memory card, and strap).
About This Brand
Olympus budget series compacts emphasize simple operation. High-end SP models have featured very long zooms. Select "Tough" subcompacts claim to be water-resistant, waterproof, shockproof, and crushproof. Olympus has Pen series models that are based on micro four-thirds sensor technology. This type of camera combines key SLR features—a large image sensor and interchangeable lenses—with the smaller size and weight of a point-and-shoot. Olympus produces several E-series SLRs, and offers a wide range of lenses.
Optical zoom Optical zoom is the maximum magnifcation of the lens.
Optical zoom
5
Manual controls Some cameras allow the user to set the aperture (f-stop), shutter speed, or (usually) both. This feature is used to override the automatic exposure settings when more control is needed. During a sporting event for example, you may want to use a high shutter speed to freeze the action. Or, you may want to use a low shutter speed to blur moving objects (like a waterfall) while keeping stationary objects sharp. Using shallow depths of field can be used to blur the background of photos while keeping the foreground in focus. Typically up/down arrow keys are used to change settings displayed on the LCD or in the viewfinder. These controls are not as easy to use as on conventional film cameras.
Manual controls
No
LCD size (in.) Digital cameras have a small liquid-crystal display (LCD) screen on the back so you can see the images and decide which to keep. You can also use the LCD to help frame photos, but that's a sure way to run down the battery in a hurry. Most LCD screens are too dim for viewing clearly in sunlight. Many cameras also use the screen for displaying menus and camera settings. It is desirable to have both an LCD display and a viewfinder with an eyepiece.
LCD size (in.)
3
Touch screen Touch screen indicates touch capability on the LCD.
Touch screen
No
Viewfinder Found on virtually all models, this optical device allows you to look through an eyepiece to frame the subject before taking a picture. Not to be confused with the LCD image display found on the back of the camera, which is mainly to view photos you've already taken.
I puchased the camera and took a total of 10 pictures. It seemed to work great. I went download pictures to my computer and they would not communicate. I then tested it by attempting to charge from the wall. No luck. As it was under warranty Olympus instructed me where to send it. DONE. After a couple of weeks it came back with anew cable . Said i was using wrong cable. I used the one it came with. They sent me anew cable. Guess what, it still won't charg or communicate with my computers. I am fed up. I am going to get me a canon or nikon!!!!! They even charged me $13 to send it in for warranty work and did not do anything.
How long have you owned it:
A month or less
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By Miss Priss
from Townsville Australia/ Alberta Canada
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
2.0
Not Even Close - SonyDSC-WX50 BUYinstead
11/4/2012
Pros
Large Clear LCD
Cons
Complicated Controls
Poor Image Quality
Poor Image Stabilization
Poor in Low Light
Best Uses
Comment:
I purchased the Olympus VG-160 to take an easy snapshot with good clarity and focus, for a moderate-affordable price. But I wanted a step up from a cheap no name camera, that is why I purchased a well known name. I think Olympus does have other great camera's, such as their high end OM-D. But for a little point and shoot you can do MUCH better by spending $100 more and buying the SONY DSC-WX50 or similar. The VG-160 by Olympus was not user friendly the buttons and controls aren't common sense easy. AND the camera has a hard time focussing in general. Also the burst shooting mode is difficult to get to in a hurry, how will you capture the action, if you can't get to the mode easily? and changing the flash mode is also time consuming, I need to switch quickly between forced flash and auto flash. <br />SONY's DSC-WX50 which ranges in price from $150-$250 is a smart buy, it is a clever camera. It knows where to focus, the images are sharp, and I didn't have to read the manual to figure out the button and settings, although you still have as much selection or more compared to Olympus. If you like the PANorama feature you must buy a SONY because Sony's Panorama sweep is way beyond the technology of other leading camera companies! Buy a camera with a EXMOR R CMOS sensor!