Olympus SZ-30MR vs Panasonic FZ40

In this article, we are evaluating the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic FZ40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the FZ40 (14MP) is very comparable and they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ-30MR was brought out 8 months later than the FZ40 and they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-30MR being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go through a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the SZ-30MR scores vs the FZ40 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-30MR & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery & Panasonic FZ40 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-30MR offers outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ40 has measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic FZ40 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the SZ-30MR vs the FZ40.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-30MR and FZ40 is 89 and 68 respectively.

Typically, its tough to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements simply by checking out technical specs. The graphic below will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-30MR and FZ40.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-30MR to show more detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The more recent SZ-30MR should have an advantage in sensor technology.