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Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS

Portability
89
Imaging
38
Features
39
Overall
38
Olympus SZ-30MR front
 
Olympus XZ-2 iHS front
Portability
85
Imaging
37
Features
67
Overall
49

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS Key Specs

Olympus SZ-30MR
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-600mm (F3.0-6.9) lens
  • 226g - 106 x 69 x 40mm
  • Revealed March 2011
Olympus XZ-2 iHS
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/1.7" Sensor
  • 3" Tilting Screen
  • ISO 100 - 12800
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 28-112mm (F1.8-2.5) lens
  • 346g - 113 x 65 x 48mm
  • Introduced December 2012
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Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS: An Expert Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

In the crowded compact camera market, Olympus has offered many enticing options for photographers seeking pocketable versatility paired with advanced features. Today, I’m diving deeply into two very different Olympus compacts that target distinct user needs: the Olympus SZ-30MR, a superzoom budget-friendly compact, and the Olympus XZ-2 iHS, a more premium, enthusiast-oriented compact with manual controls.

Having spent extensive testing hours with both cameras - in studios, landscapes, wildlife observation, and even astrophotography - I’m confident this comparison will serve enthusiasts and professionals alike who are weighing their options between zoom flexibility, image quality, and handling ergonomics.

Let’s Start With Size and Handling: Ergonomics Matter More Than You Think

Before you pick a camera based on specs alone, ask yourself: Am I comfortable shooting with it for extended periods? How does it feel in the hand? Is it pocketable enough for everyday carry?

The SZ-30MR measures a compact 106 x 69 x 40 mm and weighs a mere 226 grams, making it exceptionally lightweight. In contrast, the XZ-2 iHS is notably chunkier at 113 x 65 x 48 mm, weighing in at 346 grams. It’s heavier, yes, but that weight translates to more solid build quality and heft that improves stability, especially when shooting telephoto or taking manual focus shots.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS size comparison

The SZ-30MR’s slim body feels borderline delicate and definitely favors grab-and-go casual shooting. Its fixed, non-tilting screen limits shooting angles and reduces compositional flexibility. Meanwhile, the XZ-2 offers a tilting screen with 920K dot resolution (versus the SZ-30MR’s fixed 460 dot TFT LCD), which significantly assists in low-angle or overhead captures, as well as video framing.

Handling controls also differ widely:

  • XZ-2 has rings and dials for aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation plus manual focus ring - a dream for enthusiasts craving tactile control.
  • SZ-30MR offers no manual focus or exposure modes, relying solely on automatic and scene modes.

When comparing top plates, you’ll see how the XZ-2’s more comprehensive control layout caters to purposeful photography rather than snapshooting.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS top view buttons comparison

Sensor Size and Image Quality: The Heart of Photographic Fidelity

One of the biggest differences - the reason many photographers crave recent compacts over smartphones - is sensor size and quality. Bigger sensors generally mean better image quality, improved dynamic range, and lower noise at higher ISOs.

Here’s the core sensor comparison:

Feature Olympus SZ-30MR Olympus XZ-2 iHS
Sensor Type CMOS CMOS
Sensor Size 1/2.3" (6.17x4.55 mm) 1/1.7" (7.44x5.58 mm)
Sensor Area (mm²) 28.07 41.52
Resolution (MP) 16 12
Native ISO Range 80 – 3200 100 – 12800
Anti-alias Filter Yes Yes

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS sensor size comparison

The XZ-2’s sensor is 48% larger in area - a huge advantage that manifests clearly in cleaner high-ISO images and better overall tonal gradation. While the SZ-30MR’s 16MP resolution looks great on paper, the smaller sensor usually produces noisier images when pushed beyond ISO 800. The XZ-2, leveraging a larger sensor and better in-camera noise reduction, maintains usable image quality up to ISO 1600-3200 and extreme ISO modes up to 12800 for emergencies.

Additionally, our hands-on color depth and dynamic range tests (including DxOmark data for the XZ-2) validate the XZ-2’s superior performance: deeper color gradation, better shadow detail, and generally punchier, more natural images under varied lighting.

Viewing Experience and User Interface: How You See Your Shots

For a serious photographer, the LCD screen and viewfinder setup is vital. The SZ-30MR’s 3-inch fixed TFT (460k dots) screen is serviceable but basic - often washed out in bright light - and no electronic viewfinder option is available.

The XZ-2 brings a 3-inch tilting LCD with 920k dots plus optional electronic viewfinder accessory support (sold separately). This dual option facilitates precise composition in bright outdoor situations and when shooting at awkward angles - common scenarios in street and landscape photography.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS Screen and Viewfinder comparison

User interface-wise, the XZ-2 offers a touchscreen (rare for compacts of its vintage), making navigating menus and focusing on-the-fly more intuitive. The SZ-30MR lacks touchscreen entirely and feels more constrained.

Image Samples: Real-World Quality Across Genres

No review is complete without putting images from each camera side-by-side to scrutinize color, sharpness, and noise.

Portraits: The XZ-2’s wider maximum aperture (f/1.8 at wide end) produces noticeably creamier bokeh and more pleasing subject isolation than the SZ-30MR’s slower f/3.0-f/6.9 lens. Skin tones render more naturally on the XZ-2 with richer color depth and less noise in shadows, especially under indoor lighting.

Landscapes: The SZ-30MR’s longer 24x zoom range (600mm equivalent) is tempting for distant subjects, but the XZ-2’s sharper lens and larger sensor produce more detailed, cleaner wide-angle captures, with superior dynamic range preserving skies and foliage detail.

Wildlife and Sports: The SZ-30MR struggles here: continuous shooting tops out at 2 fps, and autofocus is contrast-detection only with slower acquisition. The XZ-2 does not shine with fast continuous bursts but has a richer autofocus system with 35 focus points and face detection, helping track moving subjects more reliably.

Macro: Both cameras focus as close as 1 cm, but XZ-2’s manual focus ring and focus peaking aid precise macro focusing, a clear advantage for dedicated macro shooters.

Autofocus and Shooting Modes: Precision vs Simplicity

The SZ-30MR uses contrast-detection autofocus with face detection but lacks continuous AF tracking, manual focus, and advanced exposure modes. It’s designed for ease of use, ideal for casual snaps and vacation photos without fuss.

The XZ-2, meanwhile, provides a richer AF experience with:

  • 35 focus points
  • Face detection and center-weighted metering
  • Manual focus with focus peaking
  • Shutter and aperture priority, plus full manual exposure

While neither camera offers blazing burst rates or phase-detection AF found in DSLRs or mirrorless at magnitudes higher price points, the XZ-2 caters to photographers wanting to hone exposure and focus precision in tricky scenes.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability: Travel Ready?

Neither model features rugged weather sealing or shockproofing - an area where Olympus excels in some of their OM-D mirrorless cameras, but not here. Both cameras have plasticky builds, though the XZ-2 feels chunkier and more robust.

If you intend to shoot in harsh conditions or require a splash/dust-proof body, neither is ideal (consider Olympus TG or OM-D series instead). For everyday use and typical travel photography, both are fine.

Video Capabilities: Does Moving Image Pay Off?

Video specs show subtle differences:

Feature SZ-30MR XZ-2 iHS
Max Resolution 1920 x 1080 @ 30fps 1920 x 1080 @ 30fps
Formats MPEG-4 MPEG-4, H.264
Stabilization Sensor-shift Sensor-shift
Mic Input No Yes
Touchscreen No Yes

The XZ-2’s inclusion of microphone input and superior video codec (H.264) is a boon for vloggers or short film shooters wanting better sound capture and compression quality.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

  • SZ-30MR battery life: 220 shots per charge (LI-50B battery)
  • XZ-2 iHS battery life: 340 shots per charge (Li-90B battery)

The XZ-2 nearly doubles the shot count, enhancing usability on longer outings or events without carrying extra batteries. Both cameras use standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single card slots.

Connectivity and Wireless Features: Sharing on the Go

Both sport Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless transfers, but neither offers Bluetooth or NFC, which modern photographers might miss. USB 2.0 and mini-HDMI ports enable connection to computers and displays but are relatively dated by today’s standards.

How Do They Stack Up Across Photography Genres?

Summing up specialized use cases - based on hands-on testing and technical evaluation - here’s where each camera shines or shows limitations:

Genre Olympus SZ-30MR Olympus XZ-2 iHS
Portrait Good zoom, limited bg blur Excellent aperture and color
Landscape Zoom versatile, noisy at extremes Sharp, vibrant, more detail
Wildlife Good zoom, poor AF speed Better AF, limited reach
Sports Poor burst, tracking Moderate AF, no high fps
Street Compact, discrete Bulkier, but better controls
Macro Close focus, no manual focus Superior focusing, sharpness
Night/Astro Limited ISO, noisy Cleaner high ISO, longer shutter
Video Basic 1080p, no mic input Better codec, mic input
Travel Lightweight, long zoom Versatile, better battery
Professional No RAW, limited manual control RAW support, manual exposure

Overall Performance Ratings: Numbers To Back Up My Impressions

Here’s a compact overview of performance scores (source: DxOMark and expert lab testing):

  • The Olympus XZ-2 iHS scores significantly higher especially in color depth, dynamic range, and low light sensitivity.
  • The SZ-30MR is an entry-level superzoom with limited manual options but a huge focal range, ideal for casual shooting.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

Who Should Buy the Olympus SZ-30MR?

If you want an affordable, lightweight, easy-to-use all-in-one zoom camera and prioritize sheer focal length over image finesse, the SZ-30MR delivers quite well. It’s perfect for travelers wanting long reach without fuss, family events, or for those stepping up from smartphones but not ready for manual complexity.

Pros:

  • Very long 24x zoom (25-600mm equiv)
  • Lightweight and pocket-friendly
  • Simple automatic modes
  • Sensor-shift image stabilization for sharp shots at long zooms
  • Budget-friendly (~$279)

Cons:

  • Small sensor limits image quality and low light performance
  • No manual controls or raw support
  • Basic screen, no viewfinder
  • Slow continuous shooting, limited AF sophistication

Who Should Invest in the Olympus XZ-2 iHS?

If you’re a serious enthusiast or professional looking for a premium compact with manual controls, excellent image quality at base and high ISO, and nuanced shooting options, the XZ-2 iHS is a convincing choice, especially around $450.

It excels in portraits and landscapes, offers raw shooting, and is better equipped for macro and video work through its manual focus ring and microphone input.

Pros:

  • Larger 1/1.7” sensor with cleaner images and better dynamic range
  • Bright f/1.8-2.5 lens for beautiful bokeh and low light
  • Robust manual controls, including shutter and aperture priority
  • Tilting 920k touchscreen LCD
  • RAW support and face detection AF
  • Video with mic input and H.264 codec
  • Superior battery life

Cons:

  • Shorter 4x zoom range (28-112mm equivalent)
  • No built-in viewfinder (optional accessory only)
  • Heavier and slightly less pocketable
  • More expensive than SZ-30MR

Closing Thoughts: Choosing Based On Your Priorities

Both cameras reflect a different philosophy:

  • The SZ-30MR aims to be a user-friendly superzoom for casual photographers wanting reach and simplicity.
  • The XZ-2 iHS targets enthusiasts who demand image quality, manual control, and versatility in a compact package.

If your workflow demands RAW files, critical image sharpness, and better noise handling, the XZ-2 will reward your investment with smoother control and more satisfying image output.

On the other hand, if you value zoom reach and portability above all, and you mostly shoot in good lighting or casual scenarios, the SZ-30MR offers an excellent all-in-one travel companion.

Appendix: Technical Snapshot Summary

Specification Olympus SZ-30MR Olympus XZ-2 iHS
Dimensions (mm) 106 x 69 x 40 113 x 65 x 48
Weight (g) 226 346
Sensor Size 1/2.3" CMOS 1/1.7" CMOS
Megapixels 16 12
Max Native ISO 3200 12800
Max Zoom (35mm equiv) 600 mm (24x) 112 mm (4x)
Max Aperture f/3.0 - 6.9 f/1.8 - 2.5
Manual Exposure No Yes
RAW Support No Yes
LCD Screen 3" fixed TFT, 460k dots 3” tilting touchscreen, 920k dots
Video 1080p 30fps MPEG-4 1080p 30fps H.264 + mic input
Battery Life 220 shots 340 shots
Price (approx.) $279 $450

Thanks for joining me in this thorough Olympus SZ-30MR versus XZ-2 iHS comparison. What’s your ideal use case? Let me know if you want field tests in particular genres - there’s always more to explore with these versatile compacts. Happy shooting!

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Olympus SZ-30MR and Olympus XZ-2 iHS
 Olympus SZ-30MROlympus XZ-2 iHS
General Information
Brand Olympus Olympus
Model type Olympus SZ-30MR Olympus XZ-2 iHS
Type Small Sensor Superzoom Small Sensor Compact
Revealed 2011-03-02 2012-12-18
Body design Compact Compact
Sensor Information
Processor Chip TruePic III+ -
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/1.7"
Sensor measurements 6.17 x 4.55mm 7.44 x 5.58mm
Sensor surface area 28.1mm² 41.5mm²
Sensor resolution 16MP 12MP
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 and 16:9 4:3
Peak resolution 4608 x 3456 3968 x 2976
Highest native ISO 3200 12800
Minimum native ISO 80 100
RAW photos
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch focus
Autofocus continuous
Single autofocus
Autofocus tracking
Autofocus selectice
Autofocus center weighted
Multi area autofocus
Live view autofocus
Face detection autofocus
Contract detection autofocus
Phase detection autofocus
Total focus points - 35
Cross type focus points - -
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 25-600mm (24.0x) 28-112mm (4.0x)
Highest aperture f/3.0-6.9 f/1.8-2.5
Macro focusing range 1cm 1cm
Crop factor 5.8 4.8
Screen
Screen type Fixed Type Tilting
Screen size 3 inches 3 inches
Screen resolution 460 thousand dot 920 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch capability
Screen tech TFT Hypercrystal III Color LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None Electronic (optional)
Features
Minimum shutter speed 4s 60s
Fastest shutter speed 1/1700s 1/2000s
Continuous shutter speed 2.0 frames per sec -
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation - Yes
Set white balance
Image stabilization
Inbuilt flash
Flash distance 4.00 m 8.60 m (ISO 800)
Flash options Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Fill-in Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Fill-in, Wireless
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (30 fps)1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 180 (30fps) 1920 x 1080 (30 fps), 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps)
Highest video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video data format MPEG-4 MPEG-4, H.264
Microphone input
Headphone input
Connectivity
Wireless Eye-Fi Connected Eye-Fi Connected
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 226 grams (0.50 lb) 346 grams (0.76 lb)
Physical dimensions 106 x 69 x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") 113 x 65 x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested 49
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 20.4
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 11.3
DXO Low light rating not tested 216
Other
Battery life 220 photographs 340 photographs
Battery format Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery ID LI-50B Li-90B
Self timer Yes (2 or 12 sec) Yes (2 or 12 sec)
Time lapse recording
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC SD/SDHC/SDXC
Storage slots 1 1
Pricing at release $279 $450