Simplicity –In an age where we’re constantly demanding more from our tech, the TG-6 revels in its set-and-forget mentality. The options are there if you need them, but you can easily get away with choosing a single mode and snapping until your heart’s content. The OM System/Olympus Tough TG-6 was launched in 2019 and it’s still available from OM Digital Solutions which acquired Olympus’s imaging division in 2021. It is widely regarded as one of the best underwater / adventure compacts on the market. The latest addition to the Olympus Tough line-up is the recently announced OM System TG-7, which at first glance works with very similar specs as the TG-6. Optimized for underwater photography that uses natural light. (e.g. in swimming pools or shallow waters) Pop Art (I, II), Soft Focus, Pale&Light Color (I, II), Light Tone, Grainy Film (I, II), Pin Hole (I, II, III), Diorama (I, II), Cross Process (I, II), Gentle Sepia, Dramatic Tone (I, II), Key Line (I, II), Watercolor (I, II), Vintage (I, II, III), Partial Color (I, II, III) While the TG-6's rugged specs are very impressive, when it comes to going underwater, several of its peers can go quite a bit deeper, with the Nikon Coolpix W300 (arguably the TG-6's closest competitor) able to function down to 30 meters (100 feet). If you're a snorkeler, that's no big deal, but for scuba it's a very desirable trait.

For those in the first group, the TG-6's auto mode can handle just about every situation, and its numerous scene modes are well organized. Going underwater? Just choose the 'fish' spot on the mode dial, where you'll find five choices that match the situation you're in. It is a shame that Olympus did not create a simplified version of its menu system for more novice users, who are likely to be overwhelmed by the options and organization. The battery is charged while it sits inside the camera via a combination of a USB lead and mains plug connector, rather than a separate mains charger being provided (although one is available). This both keeps the cost down, and allows for the device to be charged on the fly from a laptop. The Olympus Tough TG-6 boasts an attractive mix of sporty and industrial design courtesy of visible faceplate screws, which should appeal to photographers and action junkies wanting the best of both those worlds. My solution was to keep using iPhones 8/8+ for most situations and a GoPro Hero5 for those moments when using the iPhone could be dangerous. Everyday shooters and parents who want something that can be dropped or get wet, unlike their smartphoneIn addition to lighting your subject while the image is taken, the LG-1 also assists in composing your image, as the constant light source illuminates the subject. When using the LG-1 the camera's closest focusing distance is 1 cm, allowing the camera to lay flat on the subject and still focus. Pop Art (I, II), Soft Focus, Pale&Light Color (I, II), Light Tone, Grainy Film (I, II), Pin Hole (I, II, III), Diorama (I, II), Cross Process (I, II), Gentle Sepia, Dramatic Tone (I, II), Key Line (I, II), Watercolor (I, II), Vintage (I, II, III), Partial Color (I, II, III), Bleach Bypass (I, II), Instant Film The only major advance from previous Tough model is arguably the ability to shoot video at up to 4K resolution at 30fps, although there are also new underwater modes (three choices, rather than just one), macro photo options (allowing captures as close as 1cm), plus an improved LCD screen resolution at 1.04 million dots.

New to the Tough TG-6 are a slew of high-speed recording modes for video. In addition to being able to shoot 4K video at 30fps, it can also record 1080p up to 120fps, 720p at 240fps and 360p at 480fps. The number of shots and the length of time the camera waits before shooting starts can be selected.You can change the magnification level to 1x, 2x or 4x by pressing the arrow pad Right button. Up to 44.4x (35 mm equivalent: 28x) is possible when using the zoom simultaneously. Useful accessories (sold separately) are available to utilize the built-in flash or LED illuminator of the TG-6 for shooting in Microscope mode. Lastly, the TG-6's host of close-up features not only allow for capturing subjects 1cm (0.4") away: the 'digital microscope' mode lets you zoom in up to four times more, though with a reduction in image quality. Olympus sells a ring light and flash diffuser to add flexibility to your macro photography. While the top-plate operational buttons are on the large side, they’re not especially outsized, so you won’t feel out of place operating this camera on dry land as well as in the wet.