Olympus SH-50 vs Sony HX30V

Below is a extended assessment of the Olympus SH-50 and Sony HX30V, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SH-50 (16MP) and the HX30V (18MP) is fairly well matched and they possess the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SH-50 was manufactured 11 months later than the HX30V so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a short view of how the SH-50 grades against the HX30V with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SH-50 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SH-50 Gallery and Sony HX30V Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SH-50 has got exterior dimensions of 112mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.7") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Sony HX30V has specifications of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SH-50 and Sony HX30V in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the SH-50 versus the HX30V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-50 and HX30V is 88 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the difference between sensor measurements only by reading through specifications. The visual below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-50 and HX30V.

To sum up, each of these cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Sony HX30V to resolve greater detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos much more aggressively. The newer SH-50 will have an advantage in sensor technology.