Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax 645Z

On this page, we will be reviewing the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Pentax 645Z, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Pro DSLR by rivals Olympus and Pentax. There exists a big gap between the resolutions of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the SZ-30MR (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) have different sensor sizing.

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The SZ-30MR was revealed 4 years earlier than the 645Z which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-30MR being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before getting straight to a complete comparison, here is a simple summary of how the SZ-30MR scores against the 645Z with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax 645Z. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Pentax 645Z Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-30MR features outer measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax 645Z has measurements of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") and a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Pentax 645Z in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have during that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ-30MR against the 645Z.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-30MR and 645Z is 89 and 49 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to picture the contrast between sensor sizes purely by reviewing a spec sheet. The pic here will help offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-30MR and 645Z.

Clearly, both the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SZ-30MR using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Pentax 645Z will offer you more detail because of its extra 35 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged SZ-30MR is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.