Compact cameras might seem a little dated in this age of impressive smartphone snapping, but there's still very much a place for waterproof tough cams such as the Olympus TG-6. The successor to our favourite waterproof camera of 2018, the TG-6 doesn't exactly reinvent the genre.

Good photo quality in most situations; Shoots in the Raw format; Handy macro modes; Bright f/2.0 lens; Sturdy construction

Slightly fiddly buttons; Quite pricey; Limited manual controls

It been a while since I have reviewed a camera that can fit in your pocket, of course most recent SmartPhones have better than average cameras but I do not know any that can shoot underwater as this latest offering from Olympus can.

Even though it's an entry-level camera, meant for casual shooting, the TOUGH TG-6 does not compromise on image quality. A fast F2.0 lens means better low-light capability. A prism-folded design gives 25-100 mm (equiv.) 4x optical zoom.

The Olympus TOUGH TG range has been massively popular since its launch in 2012. The TOUGH TG-6 and its predecessors are at the top end of the waterproof compact price range, but people are happy to part with their cash for the excellent design and advanced features they offer.

The ultimate everything-proof outdoor and family camera gets a light but welcome update...

Takes a licking; keeps on ticking; 4K and high-speed video; Brilliant Microscope mode

… but a piece did break off; Only 12MP image resolution; No fully manual control

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is relatively easy to use and intuitive to operate, while image quality is fair without being outstanding, and build quality is reassuringly substantial. Unless you need the few upgraded features, however, the previous TG-5 or Panasonic TS7 / FT7 would be a better option right...

Internally stacked zoom lens; Raw shooting is a bonus; Video up to 4K resolution; Intuitive to use

Image quality and LCD display suffer in bright conditions; No eye-level viewfinder; Quality reduced at longer focal lengths; Small sensor at its heart

This camera takes premium-quality pictures that are bright and performs really well in low light, according to recent buyers. It also provides macro shots that are exceptional, and the underwater photos are clear, as well.

In-camera focus stacking makes the subject look clear; Full HD video at high speed provides you with no lagging at all; Has excellent color reproduction that makes images seem crisp; f/2.0 brighter than normal lenses makes sure that it can work at night; With 4k video recording; you can enjoy a...

Doesn't have full manual control for you to adjust

I am an appraiser and use this camera every day. The battery life is good. The quality of the photos is good, not amazing inside but decent. Exterior photos have great colors and look like postcards. As the camera is advertised, it is tough. It has survived falls without an issue.

The Olympus TG-6 is far and away the most capable waterproof point-and-shoot in its price range, but it's not particularly intuitive in its menu options and operation, and no printed manual is included in the package.

Capabilities of a professional digital camera in a small tough, waterproof package; Ability to add lens, filter, and lighting options; Bright, sharp LCD screen; Lots of expert shooting options

In-camera menus are extensive and not intuitive; No printed manual, and online manual layout and content can be confusing; Shutter button can be hard to find in a pinch; No wireless photo transfer to computer; RAW photo file format is proprietary

There's something to be said for simplicity, though, and the TG-6 offers it. It slides into your pocket, and goes right into the pool or ocean without worry. We have some gripes with Olympus' choices in its app notifications, but it doesn't detract from the quality of the camera.

Tough, waterproof build; Add-on lenses and macro lights available; Sharp rear LCD; Wide aperture lens; 4K video; Wi-Fi

Not a touch screen; LCD can pick up scuffs and scratches; Video feature lag behind action cameras; Wi-Fi app pushes spammy notifications