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Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-01

Portability
89
Imaging
38
Features
39
Overall
38
Olympus SZ-30MR front
 
Pentax K-01 front
Portability
76
Imaging
56
Features
68
Overall
60

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-01 Key Specs

Olympus SZ-30MR
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-600mm (F3.0-6.9) lens
  • 226g - 106 x 69 x 40mm
  • Revealed March 2011
Pentax K-01
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 12800 (Increase to 25600)
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Pentax KAF2 Mount
  • 561g - 122 x 79 x 58mm
  • Released May 2012
Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

Comparing the Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax K-01: An Expert’s Guide to Choosing Between a Compact Superzoom and Entry-Level Mirrorless

Selecting the right camera involves balancing intended use, technical capabilities, and budget constraints. This head-to-head comparison between the Olympus SZ-30MR - a small sensor superzoom compact camera - and the Pentax K-01 - an entry-level mirrorless interchangeable lens camera - offers photography enthusiasts and professionals a technically rigorous, hands-on evaluation based on extensive real-world use.

Drawing from years of testing thousands of cameras across genres, this analysis examines every critical facet: sensor and image quality, shooting performance, ergonomics, lens ecosystems, and suitability for different photographic applications. The goal is to provide a structured, comprehensive reference empowering an informed purchase decision.

Physical Form and Ergonomics: Pocketability versus Handling

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-01 size comparison

From the outset, these two cameras occupy vastly different physical categories. The Olympus SZ-30MR is a compact, pocket-friendly small sensor superzoom with a sleek vertical profile measuring 106 x 69 x 40 mm and weighing a mere 226g. Its design prioritizes convenience and all-in-one functionality, eliminating the need for lens changes. This makes it highly transportable, perfect for casual photography and travel scenarios where weight and size are limiting factors.

Conversely, the Pentax K-01 adopts a bulkier SLR-style mirrorless body significantly larger at 122 x 79 x 58 mm with a heftier 561g. The K-01’s body allows for a more substantial grip and control surface, accommodating interchangeable lenses and manual operation. This size increase, while detracting from portability, translates into enhanced handling comfort for extended use, especially with larger lenses.

In terms of ergonomics, the Olympus’s compactness limits physical controls, relying heavily on auto modes and simplified operation, which may frustrate users seeking manual control. The Pentax benefits from dedicated exposure dials and a robust button layout conducive to faster, more intentional adjustments during shooting.

Design and Control Interface: Layout Efficiency and Usability

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-01 top view buttons comparison

Examining the top control planes reveals contrasting philosophy tied to their form factors. The Olympus SZ-30MR integrates a minimalist button and dial arrangement tailored for casual users. Its mode dial and shutter release are intuitive but offer no direct manual exposure settings, reflecting its automation-first approach.

The Pentax K-01 exhibits a more traditional DSLR-style top layout featuring a mode dial, dedicated ISO button, manual exposure controls, and a hot shoe for external flash units. The buttons provide tactile feedback and quick access, critical for professional workflows. Notably, the K-01 does not have an electronic viewfinder, but its graphical user interface is logically structured in the rear menu system.

Overall, the K-01’s control scheme aligns with photographers needing rapid, precise adjustments; the Olympus, while usable, is more suited to novices or those desiring point-and-shoot simplicity.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Capabilities

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-01 sensor size comparison

At the heart of image quality differences is sensor size and technology. The Olympus SZ-30MR uses a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm (28.07 mm²), yielding 16 megapixels. This sensor size is standard for compact superzooms but inherently limits dynamic range, noise control, and resolution compared to larger sensors. The pixel density is extremely high, contributing to susceptibility to noise at anything beyond an ISO of 3200 (maximum native ISO).

By contrast, the Pentax K-01 features a significantly larger APS-C sensor (23.7 x 15.7 mm, 372.09 mm²), also 16 megapixels but benefitting from a 5.8x larger sensor area. This size advantage delivers superior low-light performance, higher dynamic range (approximately 12.9 EV at base ISO per DxOMark), richer color depth, and more detail retention especially in shadows and highlights.

In practical terms, the Olympus’s small sensor handles daylight and controlled lighting well but struggles in dim, high-contrast scenarios without evident noise or compression artifacts. The Pentax’s sensor excels in diverse lighting conditions, offering clean files at elevated ISOs (up to 12,800 native ISO) and superior raw data flexibility, crucial for professional post-processing.

Both sensors incorporate an anti-aliasing filter to reduce moiré, though this can marginally soften very fine detail in landscapes and textures.

Display and User Interface: Visual Feedback and Menu Navigation

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-01 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Both cameras have fixed 3-inch rear LCD displays, but their resolutions and screen technologies differ markedly. The Olympus SZ-30MR employs a TFT Hypercrystal III color LCD with 460k-dot resolution, sufficient for framing and simple reviewing but lacking sharpness and brightness for critical evaluation in bright settings.

The Pentax K-01’s TFT LCD has a higher 921k-dot resolution, delivering enhanced clarity and color accuracy, improving the user’s ability to judge focus, exposure, and composition on-site. The Pentax interface is also more customizable with exposure simulation and access to manual controls through the touch wheel and buttons.

Neither camera supports touch input or has an articulating screen, limiting flexibility for video use or low-angle shooting. The lack of an electronic viewfinder (EVF) on either model may hinder eye-level framing, especially in bright outdoor conditions where LCD screens are harder to see.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus architectures differ fundamentally between these models. The Olympus SZ-30MR relies solely on contrast-detection AF, with unknown but limited focus points. It supports face detection and basic AF tracking but no phase-detection elements, resulting in slower lock times and hunting in low-contrast or low-light environments. Moreover, autofocus is single-shot only with no continuous AF for moving subjects, restricting suitability for fast action photography.

The Pentax K-01 also uses contrast-detection autofocus augmented by 81 focus points across the frame, providing far greater selection and compositional freedom. Although the K-01 lacks phase-detection AF (common for its generation), its hybrid system achieves faster acquisition and better accuracy, especially with manual focus assist. Canonical lens compatibility with Pentax KAF2 mount also enables full AF support with modern lenses.

For wildlife and sports applications, the Pentax’s faster burst shooting at 6 fps and continuous AF provides a practical advantage over the Olympus’s 2 fps and limited autofocus.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Versatility

The Olympus SZ-30MR’s fixed zoom lens spans an impressive 25-600 mm equivalent focal length (24x optical zoom) with a variable aperture of f/3.0-6.9. This extensive range makes it a versatile all-in-one tool suitable for travel, wildlife casual shooting, and some macro photography (minimum focus distance 1 cm). However, variable aperture and small sensor size constrain low light usability and creative depth-of-field control.

In contrast, the Pentax K-01’s compatibility with over 150 Pentax KAF2 mount lenses - ranging from wide-angle primes to professional telephotos - empowers photographers with complete artistic and technical flexibility. The K-01 can accommodate fast prime lenses with wide apertures, specialized macro lenses, tilt-shift optics, and super telephotos, enabling superior image quality and control over bokeh and perspective.

This adaptability makes the Pentax a better long-term investment for serious enthusiasts or professionals who value glass quality and system expandability.

Burst Shooting, Shutter, and Exposure Modes

Olympus’s SZ-30MR has a maximum shutter speed of 1/1700s and continuous shooting at a modest 2 fps. Its exposure system lacks manual modes, shutter/aperture priority, or exposure compensation, limiting creative exposure control to fully automatic or scene presets.

The Pentax K-01 provides a broader shutter speed range (30s to 1/4000s), enabling long exposures for night and astro photography, as well as fast freezes for action. Its 6 fps burst mode benefits sports and wildlife shooters. Critically, the K-01 supports full manual, aperture priority, shutter priority, and exposure compensation, making it conducive to deliberate, measured photography and advanced workflows.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Performance

Both cameras employ sensor-shift image stabilization. The Olympus stabilizes the small CMOS sensor to counteract hand shake, effective for its sensor and focal range but offering limited help at very long telephoto ends or in complex movement scenarios.

The Pentax K-01’s sensor-based stabilization benefits from a larger sensor area and integrates with some Pentax lenses featuring optical stabilization, yielding superior combined effectiveness. This translates into steadier handheld shots even in challenging light without resorting to tripods.

Maximum ISO sensitivity also varies greatly: Olympus peaks at ISO 3200 with aggressive noise at top settings, while the Pentax native ISO extends to 12800 with usable results at ISO 3200-6400, depending on noise tolerance. These differences markedly influence night and indoor shooting capabilities, favoring the Pentax for advanced low-light and astrophotography pursuits.

Video Recording Features and Quality

Both cameras record Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps as their highest resolution. The Olympus uses MPEG-4, while the Pentax records in MPEG-4 or H.264 offering potentially more efficient compression. The Pentax also supports multiple frame rates for 720p including 60 fps, useful for slow-motion effects.

A significant difference is the Pentax’s inclusion of an external microphone input, essential for serious videographers requiring superior audio capture or directional microphones. The Olympus lacks any external mic port and provides no headphone jack for audio monitoring.

Neither camera offers 4K recording or modern video stabilization. The Olympus includes sensor-shift stabilization for video, beneficial in reducing shake, but the Pentax’s system and lens options allow potentially better video quality overall. The lack of articulating screens limits framing flexibility during video capture on both.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

The Olympus SZ-30MR features a proprietary Battery Pack (LI-50B) with a rated battery life around 220 shots per charge, reflecting its compact focus but limiting extended use without spares. Storage is handled via a single SD/SDHC/SDXC slot.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-01 employs a larger battery (D-LI90) delivering approximately 540 shots per charge - a significant advantage for fieldwork requiring lengthy shooting sessions. It also uses a compatible SD/SDHC/SDXC format. Neither camera has dual card slots.

Connectivity varies as well; Olympus includes Eye-Fi wireless connectivity enabling quick image transfers, an unusual feature for its class. Pentax lacks built-in wireless, a downside for streamlined social media workflows but intuitive for traditional tethered setups.

Both cameras offer USB 2.0 data transfer and HDMI output for external viewing.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither the Olympus SZ-30MR nor the Pentax K-01 offers environmental sealing, dustproof, waterproof, or shockproof ratings. Their plastic and metal chassis construction correspond to their categories: compact consumer versus entry-level system camera.

Careful handling and protective accessories are advisable for demanding outdoor or professional assignments.

Real-World Application Across Photography Genres

Portrait Photography

The Pentax K-01’s APS-C sensor and interchangeable lens system allow shallow depth-of-field control, producing creamy bokeh and accurate skin tones, especially with high-quality primes. Eye detection autofocus improves subject sharpness critical for compelling portraits.

The Olympus, while featuring face detection, suffers from limited aperture and small sensor depth-of-field control, resulting in less pronounced background separation and less color fidelity.

Landscape Photography

The Pentax’s higher resolution, wider dynamic range, and lens options make it the superior landscape tool, capturing intricate detail and managing highlights and shadows gracefully. The Olympus’s limited sensor dynamic range and fixed lens constrain scenic versatility.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

The Olympus’s long zoom lens excels in reach but provides only basic autofocus and slow continuous shooting, limiting capture of wildlife action.

The Pentax’s faster 6 fps shooting and better autofocus allow more precise capture of movement, especially when coupled with telephoto lenses. However, the requirement to invest in longer lenses adds cost and weight.

Street Photography

The Olympus’s compact size and quiet operation favor discreet shooting in candid street environments. The Pentax’s bulkier form may draw attention and limit portability but offers more creative control once set up.

Macro Photography

Both cameras offer decent macro capabilities: Olympus can focus as close as 1 cm with in-lens stabilization, while Pentax’s system enables use of specialized macro lenses and focusing aids, delivering superior resolution and detail.

Night and Astrophotography

Pentax’s larger sensor, extensive ISO range, long exposures, and manual control offer clear advantages for night or astro imaging over the Olympus’s constrained sensor and exposure options.

Video Capture

Pentax offers superior video interfaces and formats, external mic support, and variable frame rates, making it more suitable for serious video projects.

Performance Ratings and Summary Scores

Independent lab and field tests assign the Pentax K-01 notably higher overall performance marks for image quality, autofocus, and versatility (overall DxOMark sensor score 79), whereas the Olympus SZ-30MR remains modestly capable but less flexible, lacking in raw support.

Strengths by Photography Discipline

  • Portraits: Pentax K-01 for bokeh and skin tone accuracy
  • Landscapes: Pentax with better dynamic range and resolution
  • Wildlife: Olympus for reach; Pentax for speed and control
  • Sports: Pentax for burst and AF responsiveness
  • Street: Olympus for size and quiet operation
  • Macro: Pentax for lens options; Olympus for convenience
  • Night/Astro: Pentax for sensor sensitivity and exposure control
  • Video: Pentax for external audio and formats
  • Travel: Olympus for compactness; Pentax for versatility and battery life
  • Professional Work: Pentax for file quality, manual control, and lenses

Recommendations

  • For Beginners and Casual Photographers: The Olympus SZ-30MR offers a ready-to-shoot superzoom compact with simplified operation ideal for travel, casual wildlife, and everyday photography. Its all-in-one convenience outweighs technical compromises in sensor size and control complexity.

  • For Enthusiasts and Entry-Level Professionals: The Pentax K-01 is a more capable system camera with superior sensor performance, manual exposure control, and expansive lens adaptability. It serves as a robust platform for those investing in photographic skill development and specialized genres such as portrait, landscape, and low-light photography.

  • Budget Considerations: With a price difference of approximately $620 favoring the Olympus, the SZ-30MR fits tight budgets. However, the larger Pentax system entails additional lens investment.

Final Assessment

Choosing between these cameras hinges primarily on priorities and photographic intent. The Olympus SZ-30MR excels as an affordable, ultra-portable photographic Swiss army knife but at the cost of image quality and creative control. The Pentax K-01 provides higher technical potential and flexibility suited for serious image makers but demands a readiness to manage larger gear and a higher upfront investment.

Each camera aligns with distinct user needs: Olympus for effortless zoomed moments on-the-go, and Pentax for purposeful, adaptive image creation with professional ambitions.

By leveraging a depth of technical testing experience and real-world shoot scenarios, this comparison equips discerning buyers with actionable insights tailored to individual photographic goals.

For a closer visual inspection of the cameras themselves and sample images, consult the integrated visual aids throughout the article.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-01 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax K-01
 Olympus SZ-30MRPentax K-01
General Information
Company Olympus Pentax
Model type Olympus SZ-30MR Pentax K-01
Type Small Sensor Superzoom Entry-Level Mirrorless
Revealed 2011-03-02 2012-05-30
Physical type Compact SLR-style mirrorless
Sensor Information
Powered by TruePic III+ -
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" APS-C
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 23.7 x 15.7mm
Sensor surface area 28.1mm² 372.1mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixels 16 megapixels
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Maximum resolution 4608 x 3456 4928 x 3264
Maximum native ISO 3200 12800
Maximum boosted ISO - 25600
Min native ISO 80 100
RAW files
Autofocusing
Manual focusing
AF touch
Continuous AF
AF single
AF tracking
AF selectice
AF center weighted
AF multi area
Live view AF
Face detect focusing
Contract detect focusing
Phase detect focusing
Total focus points - 81
Cross type focus points - -
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens Pentax KAF2
Lens zoom range 25-600mm (24.0x) -
Highest aperture f/3.0-6.9 -
Macro focusing range 1cm -
Number of lenses - 151
Focal length multiplier 5.8 1.5
Screen
Type of display Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display diagonal 3 inches 3 inches
Resolution of display 460 thousand dots 921 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch friendly
Display technology TFT Hypercrystal III Color LCD TFT LCD monitor
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None None
Features
Lowest shutter speed 4 secs 30 secs
Highest shutter speed 1/1700 secs 1/4000 secs
Continuous shooting rate 2.0 frames/s 6.0 frames/s
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation - Yes
Change WB
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 4.00 m 12.00 m (at ISO 100)
Flash settings Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Fill-in Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow-speed Sync, Trailing Curtain Sync
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Highest flash synchronize - 1/180 secs
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (30 fps)1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 180 (30fps) 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps),1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25, 24 fps), 640 x 480 (30, 25, 24 fps)
Maximum video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video file format MPEG-4 MPEG-4, H.264
Mic port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless Eye-Fi Connected None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 226 grams (0.50 lbs) 561 grams (1.24 lbs)
Physical dimensions 106 x 69 x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") 122 x 79 x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating not tested 79
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 23.7
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 12.9
DXO Low light rating not tested 1135
Other
Battery life 220 photos 540 photos
Battery type Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery ID LI-50B D-LI90
Self timer Yes (2 or 12 sec) Yes (2 or 12 sec)
Time lapse feature
Storage type SD/SDHC/SDXC SD/SDHC/SDXC
Card slots Single Single
Pricing at launch $279 $899