Olympus SZ-30MR vs Panasonic FH5

On this page, we are reviewing the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic FH5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the FH5 (16MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ-30MR was revealed 2 months later than the FH5 so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise summary of how the SZ-30MR matches up versus the FH5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Panasonic FH5 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-30MR has got outside measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH5 has measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") having a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic FH5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at that time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the SZ-30MR compared to the FH5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-30MR and FH5 is 89 and 96 respectively.

More often than not, it can be hard to see the gap in sensor sizing merely by seeing a spec sheet. The graphic below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-30MR and FH5.

Clearly, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same resolution so you should expect comparable quality of images although you have to consider the production date of the cameras into account.