Olympus SZ-30MR vs Panasonic XS1

Here is a thorough comparison of the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic XS1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the XS1 (16MP) is fairly similar and both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-30MR was manufactured 22 months prior to the XS1 making them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a complete comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the SZ-30MR scores versus the XS1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera often, you are going to need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-30MR features exterior dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic XS1 has proportions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic XS1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-30MR versus the XS1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-30MR and XS1 is 89 and 97 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizing just by going over technical specs. The visual here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-30MR and XS1.

As you have seen, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same exact MP so you should expect similar quality of pictures however you will need to take the production date of the products into consideration. The older SZ-30MR is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.