Olympus SZ-15 vs Sony HX30V

The following is a detailed assessment of the Olympus SZ-15 vs Sony HX30V, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the HX30V (18MP) is pretty well matched and they possess the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was unveiled 16 months after the HX30V which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SZ-15 scores versus the HX30V when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-15 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery and Sony HX30V Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-15 enjoys physical measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") along with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Sony HX30V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-15 vs Sony HX30V in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-15 against the HX30V.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-15 and HX30V is 88 and 90 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions only by looking at technical specs. The image below will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-15 and HX30V.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different resolution. You should expect the Sony HX30V to resolve extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The newer SZ-15 provides an edge in sensor tech.