Olympus SZ-30MR vs Panasonic ZS80

Below, we are analyzing the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Panasonic ZS80, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the ZS80 (20MP) is fairly well matched and they possess the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The SZ-30MR was brought out 8 years earlier than the ZS80 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the SZ-30MR scores against the ZS80 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Panasonic ZS80 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-30MR features exterior measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS80 has specifications of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") with a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Panasonic ZS80 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilizing at the time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-30MR and the ZS80.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-30MR and ZS80 is 89 and 86 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizing simply by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic below will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-30MR and ZS80.

As you can see, each of these cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Panasonic ZS80 to resolve more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics much more aggressively. The older SZ-30MR is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.