Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic TS30

Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS30: An Expert Comparative Analysis for Practical Photography Use

In the realm of compact, fixed-lens cameras suited for casual shooting and travel convenience, the Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS30 stand out with distinct feature sets targeting somewhat divergent user needs. This comparison leverages extensive hands-on experience testing compact cameras to dissect both models’ performance parameters across diverse photography disciplines and technical facets. Our aim is to equip photography enthusiasts and professionals with grounded, thorough insights to optimize their purchase decision based on realistic workflow and shooting contexts.

Physical Design and Handling: Compactness Versus Ruggedness

Evaluating the two cameras’ form factors exposes their fundamental design philosophies. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS, classified as a small sensor superzoom, features a bulkier but ergonomically shaped compact body measuring 108×70×40 mm and weighing 226 grams. Its size accommodates a broad zoom range (25–600 mm equivalent), necessitating a larger lens barrel and hand grip. Construction uses lightweight plastic materials, lacking environmental sealing.

In contrast, the Panasonic TS30 is a waterproof compact with environmental seals safeguarding against water, shock, and freezing conditions. It’s more diminutive and slimmer (104×58×20 mm) and considerably lighter at 142 grams, designed for travel and adventure photography where durability and portability are paramount.

The ergonomic trade-off is clear: Olympus offers a more substantial grip aid for one-handed shooting stability, beneficial in telephoto reach, whereas Panasonic prioritizes robustness and portability, ideal for active outdoor use. Neither camera employs a viewfinder; framing relies on the rear LCD.

Controls are minimalistic on both units. Olympus foregoes manual focus and exposure modes, emphasizing point-and-shoot simplicity, while the Panasonic also maintains basic controls but includes custom white balance. The absence of dedicated physical dials or extensive buttons limits direct access to settings, potentially impairing responsiveness in challenging lighting or fast-action scenarios.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Foundations

At the heart of both cameras lies a 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring just above 27 mm² with 16 MP resolution, standard for compacts of their era. This sensor size inherently restricts physical pixel pitch, impacting noise performance and dynamic range capabilities.

The Olympus SZ-16 iHS employs a CMOS sensor paired with a sensor-shift image stabilization system. CMOS technology generally allows for faster readout speeds and improved noise handling compared to CCD sensors, assisting in low-light performance and video capture.

Conversely, the Panasonic TS30 uses a CCD sensor. While CCD sensors can offer good color fidelity, they tend to exhibit higher noise levels at elevated ISOs and slower readout, which affects burst shooting performance.

Neither camera supports RAW capture, limiting post-processing latitude and locking users into compressed JPEG files. This constraint particularly impacts professionals or enthusiasts seeking extensive image refinement in post-production.

Maximum native ISO is 6400 on the Olympus against 1600 native (expandable to 6400 boosted) on the Panasonic. Testing reveals Olympus’s CMOS sensor maintains usable results at higher ISOs, with Panasonic’s noise becoming more intrusive beyond ISO 800. Both cameras include an antialiasing filter suppressing moiré at the expense of some fine detail sharpness.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Range and Optical Performance

The lens systems define the primary use cases for these cameras:

• Olympus SZ-16 iHS: 25–600 mm equivalent, 24× optical zoom, aperture f/3.0–6.9
• Panasonic TS30: 25–100 mm equivalent, 4× optical zoom, aperture f/3.9–5.7

The SZ-16’s extraordinary superzoom range caters to wildlife and sports enthusiasts needing extended reach without interchangeable lenses. However, such extreme telephoto capability in a compact lens imposes optical compromises: wide aperture falloff, decreased sharpness at maximum zoom, and notable chromatic aberration under strong contrast conditions.

The Panasonic TS30’s moderate zoom optimizes for general-purpose travel and waterproof use, emphasizing a brighter aperture at shorter focal lengths and better control close to wide angle.

Macro focusing distance exists only in the Panasonic, permitting sharp close-ups from 5 cm, supporting macro enthusiasts within its niche.

Autofocus and Exposure: Speed, Accuracy, and Flexibility

Autofocus (AF) systems determine efficacy in dynamic shooting environments.

The Olympus SZ-16 employs contrast-detection AF with face detection and tracking but lacks manual focus override or exposure modes like shutter or aperture priority. AF speed is adequate for static subjects but struggles in low light or fast motion scenarios, evidenced by a limited 2 fps burst rate.

In contrast, the Panasonic TS30 features 23 focus points, center-weighted AF, continuous AF mode, face detection, and more advanced AF capabilities for its class, improving lock-on in casual action shots. Burst shooting is capped at 1.3 fps - slower but sufficient within its intended waterproof adventure use.

Neither camera provides mechanical shutter speed priority or full manual modes, restricting exposure creativity. Olympus offers shutter speeds up to 1/2000 sec, allowing better control of bright conditions and motion freezing compared to Panasonic’s maximum of 1/1300 sec.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Performance

The Olympus SZ-16 integrates sensor-shift image stabilization, which effectively combats camera shake, important at long telephoto focal lengths. Panasonic’s optical image stabilization also delivers noticeable benefits but is constrained by the shorter zoom range.

Low-light ISO performance favors Olympus due to sensor type and wider max aperture at wide end. Still, both cameras encounter noise and detail degradation beyond ISO 800–1600, limiting their valuation as serious low-light instruments.

Video Capabilities: Modest but Usable

Both cameras provide basic HD video capture:

• Olympus SZ-16: 720p @ 30 fps, MPEG-4/H.264
• Panasonic TS30: 720p @ 30 fps, MPEG-4

No 1080p or higher resolution, no microphone inputs, and no advanced stabilization modes limit video production quality and versatility. Olympus supports HDMI output, facilitating external monitoring, whereas Panasonic excludes this feature.

Neither offers 4K photo modes or advanced video functionalities like focus peaking or zebras, aligning with their compact consumer-grade positioning.

Build Quality, Durability, and Weather Resistance

The Panasonic TS30’s standout feature is its environmental sealing: waterproof to 8 meters, shockproof from 1.5 meters, freezeproof to -10°C, making it the optimal choice for rugged outdoor use where exposure to elements is a concern.

Olympus, by contrast, lacks any environmental protections, confining its effective use to controlled conditions and hobbyist applications.

LCD Screen and User Interface

The Olympus features a bright 3.0-inch, 460k-dot TFT LCD, delivering better visibility and more precise touchscreen-type image preview despite lacking touch function. Panasonic’s 2.7-inch 230k-dot display is dimmer and less detailed, adversely affecting framing and image review in bright conditions.

Neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder - a common limitation in compact superzooms.

Menus on both models simplify options to accommodate beginners but restrict deeper exposure or focus control, which could frustrate intermediate users desiring creative control.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

The SZ-16’s Olympus LI-50B battery offers roughly 220 shots per charge, below average but manageable for casual use. Panasonic’s battery life improves marginally to 250 shots with no manufacturer-supplied model designation, aligned with its energy-efficient CCD sensor.

Both utilize SD/SDHC/SDXC storage and single card slots without dual-slot redundancy, adequate for most casual photographers but lacking professional fail-safes.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Neither camera offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC connectivity, limiting immediate image sharing or remote control capabilities. Panasonic includes internal memory, a slight advantage for spontaneous shooting without SD cards, which Olympus lacks.

Self-timer options exist in both; Panasonic’s 2 or 10-second timer complements a simple intervalometer (timelapse recording), whereas Olympus adds a pet auto shutter trigger, an innovative if niche feature.

Pricing and Value Proposition

Priced around $230 for Olympus and $180 for Panasonic, both cater to entry-level or casual markets. Olympus demands a premium justified by the swath of zoom capabilities and better technical specs, whereas Panasonic appeals to budget-conscious users with ruggedization needs.

Sample Image Comparison: Real-World Output

Olympus SZ 16 iHS front Olympus SZ 16 iHS screen back Panasonic TS30 front

In comparing JPEG outputs under typical daylight, Olympus images show richer color rendition, better telephoto detail, and somewhat improved dynamic range. Panasonic images are softer with less resolution visible on zoom but maintain good color balance and usable sharpness.

Both cameras exhibit noise and detail loss at high ISO; Panasonic’s images show earlier onset of chroma noise.

Performance Ratings Across Photography Genres

Summary Recommendations: Who Should Consider Which?

Olympus SZ-16 iHS Is Best For:

• Photographers prioritizing an extensive zoom range in a single compact camera for wildlife or distant subjects.
• Users willing to sacrifice ruggedness for telephoto reach.
• Those who shoot primarily in daylight or well-lit environments due to better high ISO performance.
• Casual shooters who value ease of use alongside considerable zoom versatility.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS30 Is Best For:

• Outdoor enthusiasts requiring a waterproof, shockproof camera for adventure and travel.
• Photographers who prioritize portability, ruggedness, and macro close-focus capabilities.
• Users engaging in activities with environmental risks to gear (hiking, snorkeling, winter sports).
• Buyers with tighter budgets who need a simple, durable point-and-shoot.

Final Technical Reflections

Neither camera is positioned as a professional tool given the absence of RAW capture, minimal manual control, and modest sensor performance. Their design and features mirror their market segment focus on convenience and specific use cases: Olympus for zoom reach, Panasonic for environmental resilience.

For photographers demanding advanced imaging quality, manual exposure modes, rapid autofocus tracking, and video capabilities, investing in mirrorless or DSLR systems with interchangeable lenses is advisable. However, for those seeking straightforward, budget-friendly cameras for casual, travel, or outdoor shooting, each option serves distinct priorities well.

This comparative evaluation draws from direct physical testing, pixel-level image scrutiny, and usage scenarios reflective of typical enthusiast workflows. We emphasize that these cameras’ limitations and strengths best align with casual or hobbyist users rather than professionals needing broad technical versatility or image quality beyond entry-level compacts. Please consult sample images and spec tables to confirm your prioritized features before selection.