Nikon S31 vs Sony HX30V

Below is a in depth assessment of the Nikon S31 and Sony HX30V, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Nikon and Sony. There exists a sizable gap among the sensor resolutions of the S31 (10MP) and HX30V (18MP) and the S31 (1/2.9") and HX30V (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The S31 was announced 16 months later than the HX30V which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the S31 scores against the HX30V with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S31 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon S31 Gallery & Sony HX30V Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and volume. The Nikon S31 has outside measurements of 105mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.1" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs) while the Sony HX30V has sizing of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

See the Nikon S31 and Sony HX30V in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the S31 against the HX30V.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S31 and HX30V is 90 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to envision the contrast in sensor measurements just by viewing specs. The visual here might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the S31 and HX30V.

All in all, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The S31 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more difficult and the Sony HX30V will provide you with extra detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots far more aggressively. The newer S31 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.