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Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-1

Portability
89
Imaging
38
Features
39
Overall
38
Olympus SZ-30MR front
 
Pentax K-1 front
Portability
55
Imaging
75
Features
82
Overall
77

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-1 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
  • Introduced March 2011
Pentax K-1
(Full Review)
  • 36MP - Full frame Sensor
  • 3.2" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 100 - 204800
  • Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
  • No Anti-Alias Filter
  • 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Pentax KAF2 Mount
  • 1010g - 137 x 110 x 86mm
  • Revealed February 2016
  • Replacement is Pentax K-1 II
Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

Olympus SZ-30MR vs. Pentax K-1: A Deep Dive into Two Very Different Cameras

Choosing your next camera is always a journey - one that depends heavily on your photography style, technical needs, and budget. Today, I’m putting the Olympus SZ-30MR, a compact superzoom from 2011, head to head with the Pentax K-1, a full-frame DSLR flagship released in 2016. These two cameras essentially occupy opposite ends of the photography spectrum: one is a budget-friendly point-and-shoot built for convenience and reach, the other a professional-grade DSLR designed for image quality and versatility.

Over the years, I’ve tested thousands of cameras, from entry-level compacts to high-end professional models, so in this comprehensive comparison, I’ll reveal how these two stack up across the board. You’ll get thorough insights on their technology, real-world performance, and which user types each suits best.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-1 size comparison

Form Factor & Handling: Pocketable Convenience vs. Hefty Build

Right off the bat, the size difference is dramatic. The Olympus SZ-30MR is a petite compact camera weighing only 226 grams with dimensions of 106 x 69 x 40 mm. It fits in a jacket pocket or small bag with ease, making it a classic grab-and-go travel or casual camera. In contrast, the Pentax K-1 tips the scales at 1010 grams and measures 137 x 110 x 86 mm. This DSLR is built for serious handheld use with a substantial grip and weather-sealed magnesium alloy body.

In my hands-on sessions, the SZ-30MR felt light and nimble - great for street photography and travel, although the plastic body and small controls limit its comfort over long sessions. The K-1’s heft delivers solid confidence and stability - especially when paired with larger lenses - but it’s definitely less discreet and requires more bag space.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-1 top view buttons comparison

The control layout further underscores their distinct audiences. The SZ-30MR offers a no-frills, fixed control scheme with minimal physical buttons and no manual dials, limiting direct control but streamlining use for casual photographers. The K-1 shines with dedicated dials, customizable buttons, and a top info screen - features that seasoned photographers appreciate for swift adjustments during shoots.

If ergonomics and physical control are priorities, the K-1 is the clear winner. However, for casual trips and moments when simplicity reigns, the SZ-30MR’s compact design and straightforward handling have undeniable appeal.

Sensor and Image Quality: Small Sensor Limits vs. Full-Frame Excellence

This comparison hinges greatly on sensor technology.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-1 sensor size comparison

  • Olympus SZ-30MR: Utilizes a 1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm) CMOS sensor with 16 megapixels.
  • Pentax K-1: Sports a full-frame (35.9 x 24 mm) CMOS sensor with 36.4 megapixels and no anti-aliasing filter.

In my extensive testing, sensor size and quality make a massive difference in image characteristics. The SZ-30MR’s tiny sensor inherently limits dynamic range, low-light performance, and detail resolution. Images tend to be softer with more noise creeping in beyond ISO 800, making it suitable mainly for daylight and moderate lighting conditions. It does, however, excel at getting you closer with a massive 24x optical zoom, a feature that punchier high-megapixel sensors in compacts usually can’t match.

The Pentax K-1 delivers exceptional image quality, showcasing true full-frame benefits: rich color depth, excellent dynamic range, and impressive noise control even up to ISO 3200–6400. Thanks to the lack of an anti-aliasing filter, images are razor-sharp straight from the sensor, a big plus for landscape and portrait photographers seeking critical detail.

Shooting RAW is another huge advantage with the K-1, offering extensive post-processing flexibility that the SZ-30MR’s JPEG-only output cannot provide.

The Viewfinder and LCD Experience: Essential for Framing and Reviewing

Considering framing and reviewing shots, the two take very different approaches.

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-1 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The SZ-30MR relies solely on a fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with 460k-dot resolution. It’s bright enough for casual outdoor use but limited when direct sunlight strikes. More importantly, the lack of any viewfinder can hinder precise composition, especially in bright environments or complex lighting.

The K-1 features a large 3.2-inch fully articulating LCD with over 1 million dots and an OLED refresh rate that enhances live view, video, and menu navigation. Most importantly, it sports a high-quality optical pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage and 0.7x magnification - a critical tool for manual framing, especially when shooting action or in bright light situations where LCD glare is prohibitive.

For anyone who values precise, reliable framing, the K-1’s hybrid optical/digital solution is much more versatile.

Autofocus and Focusing Capabilities

Autofocus is a pivotal consideration depending on your photography genre. Here’s where the two cameras diverge significantly.

Feature Olympus SZ-30MR Pentax K-1
AF Type Contrast Detection Hybrid Phase + Contrast
AF Points Unknown, basic 33 points (25 cross-type)
Face Detection Yes Yes
Continuous AF No Yes
AF Tracking Basic Advanced
Manual Focus No Yes

The SZ-30MR uses a simple contrast-detection AF system with limited points and no support for manual focus. From personal experience testing compact superzooms, this system is adequate in good light but can struggle with moving subjects and low light. Continuous AF and complex tracking are absent, so it’s not ideal for dynamic subjects.

By contrast, the K-1’s hybrid phase-detection and contrast AF system, combined with 33 AF points and the option for selective AF point selection, delivers excellent accuracy and speed. It also supports continuous autofocus and subject tracking, making it suitable for action, wildlife, and sports photography.

If autofocus performance is a top priority, the K-1 is a clear choice, offering versatility and precision well beyond what the SZ-30MR can manage.

Zoom, Lens Selection, and Versatility

Zoom and lens compatibility directly impact creative flexibility.

  • Olympus SZ-30MR: Fixed lens with 25–600mm (35mm equivalent) zoom range - an enormous 24x optical zoom.
  • Pentax K-1: Compatible with Pentax KAF2 mount lenses, over 150 lenses available.

The SZ-30MR’s superzoom lens is its headline feature. In real-world use, I found the 25mm wide angle suitable for landscapes and environmental portraits, while the 600mm telephoto reach is remarkable for a compact - great for wildlife and sports from a distance, albeit with optical compromises such as softness and slower aperture (f/3.0-6.9).

The K-1’s lens ecosystem is where it truly shines. With full-frame sensors, lenses are designed to deliver the best optical quality, fast apertures, and varied focal lengths. This includes ultra-wide angles, macro lenses, fast primes, telephotos, and specialty optics like tilt-shift and astro lenses.

For photographers who want a single camera to “do it all” or grow their kit over time, the K-1 offers unmatched versatility. The SZ-30MR’s lens, while impressive for a compact, is fixed and cannot be changed - a trade-off for portability.

Burst Shooting and Video Capability

Let’s look at continuous shooting and video, important for action and multimedia enthusiasts.

  • Olympus SZ-30MR: 2 fps continuous shooting; Full HD 1080p video at 30fps.
  • Pentax K-1: 4.4 fps continuous shooting; Full HD 1080p video up to 60i; microphone and headphone jacks.

Regarding burst rates, neither camera is top-tier sports gear, but the K-1’s 4.4 frames per second give a clear edge capturing fast-moving subjects. Combined with superior autofocus tracking, this makes the K-1 a better choice for wildlife and sports.

For video, the SZ-30MR supports only 1920x1080 at 30fps in MPEG-4 format, with no external audio input - a basic video tool best suited for casual use.

In comparison, the K-1 offers smoother 1080p video at multiple frame rates (30p, 50i, 60i), along with external microphone and headphone connectivity, making it suitable for videographers requiring quality sound capture and monitoring.

Neither camera supports 4K video or advanced cinematic features, but the K-1’s options are a step up for anyone serious about video.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

For extended shooting sessions, battery and storage cannot be ignored.

  • Olympus SZ-30MR: About 220 shots per charge; uses proprietary LI-50B battery; single SD card slot.
  • Pentax K-1: Roughly 760 shots per charge; proprietary D-LI90 battery; dual SD card slots (UHS-I compatible).

Testing these cameras in field conditions affirmed the substantial endurance difference: The K-1 can easily power through a full day of intense shooting, while the SZ-30MR requires more frequent recharging or carrying spare batteries.

Dual card slots on the K-1 also provide valuable redundancy or overflow options, a significant advantage for pros safeguarding important shoots.

Weather Sealing and Durability for Rugged Use

The K-1 is an advanced weather-sealed DSLR, with extensive dust and moisture resistance rated for tough outdoor shooting. The SZ-30MR lacks any such sealing or ruggedization features.

If your photography frequently involves harsh environments, rain, or dust - think landscape and wildlife in the wild - the K-1’s build quality and weather resistance provide reliability and peace of mind.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Connectivity also matters for workflow and sharing.

  • The SZ-30MR offers Eye-Fi card compatibility (wireless SD cards) for image transfer.
  • The K-1 includes built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and image transfer, plus GPS for geotagging.

Modern photographers benefit from integrated wireless features, and while the SZ-30MR’s reliance on Eye-Fi cards feels dated now, it was innovative for its time. The K-1’s built-in connectivity is more streamlined and practical.

Real-World Image Comparison: Quality vs. Convenience

Here are a few side-by-side sample images to illustrate how sensor size, lens quality, and processing translate visually.

  • Portraits: The K-1 produces smooth, natural skin tones with excellent bokeh thanks to fast lenses and full-frame depth of field control. The SZ-30MR struggles to isolate subjects, with less creamy background blur and lower detail in shadows.
  • Landscapes: K-1 excels with phenomenal dynamic range and sharpness, capturing textures faithfully. The SZ-30MR’s images show more noise and less detail, particularly in shadow recovery.
  • Wildlife at zoom: The SZ-30MR is surprisingly handy when you need a big zoom in a small package, though softness at 600mm and slower aperture hamper sharpness. The K-1 requires bigger telephoto lenses for the same reach but delivers crisper results.
  • Low light: The SZ-30MR images become noticeably grainy beyond ISO 800. The K-1 maintains clean files even up to ISO 3200, making night and indoor shooting much more flexible.

Performance Overview and Scoring

Based on lab testing and real-world shooting, here’s how both cameras perform by key criteria:

Category Olympus SZ-30MR Pentax K-1
Image Quality ★★☆☆☆ ★★★★★
Autofocus ★★☆☆☆ ★★★★☆
Build & Handling ★★☆☆☆ ★★★★☆
Features ★★★☆☆ ★★★★☆
Value ★★★☆☆ ★★☆☆☆

The SZ-30MR does well for its class: good zoom, decent image quality for casual use, and simple operation at a low price. However, it cannot compete with the K-1’s excellence in almost every technical and handling category.

How Each Camera Serves Different Photography Genres

Here’s a genre-by-genre breakdown to help you decide which might suit your interests.

  • Portraits: Pentax K-1 dominates with superior sensor and lens options, beautiful bokeh, and accurate AF with eye detection.
  • Landscape: K-1 offers dynamic range, weather sealing, and resolution for breathtaking images.
  • Wildlife: SZ-30MR’s huge zoom is convenient, but K-1’s AF and lens choices deliver markedly better results.
  • Sports: The K-1’s faster burst and autofocus tracking make it the better option.
  • Street: SZ-30MR wins for portability and discretion; ideal for casual street shooters.
  • Macro: K-1 with dedicated macro lenses wins despite the SZ-30MR’s 1cm macro focusing distance.
  • Night/Astro: K-1’s ISO range and long exposure options make it vastly superior.
  • Video: K-1 offers better frame rates, mic inputs, and audio control.
  • Travel: SZ-30MR ultra-portable and long zoom is great for tourists; K-1 requires more space but offers versatility.
  • Professional Workflow: K-1 supports RAW, dual cards, and tethered shooting - essentials for pro use.

Final Takeaways: Who Should Choose Which Camera?

Olympus SZ-30MR – The Compact Zoom Companion

  • Best for casual shooters, travelers, and street photographers on a budget.
  • Great if you want a single, lightweight camera with massive zoom reach.
  • Not suited for challenging lighting, professional workflows, or fast-action photography.
  • Excellent value for its feature set and price point around $280.

Pentax K-1 – The Full-Frame Workhorse

  • Built for enthusiasts and professionals who demand image quality, control, and versatility.
  • Ideal for portraits, landscapes, wildlife, sports, macro, and night photography.
  • Offers durability, advanced features, and extensive lens options at a $1,500+ price tag.
  • More of an investment but one that pays off in creative potential and long-term use.

Why You Can Trust This Analysis

My evaluation draws on hands-on testing under varied conditions - including daylight, low light, studio, and outdoor shoots - plus lab measurements for sensor performance and autofocus speed. Beyond raw specs, I emphasize real-world usability, workflow integration, and genre-specific strengths. Being transparent about each camera’s intended purpose allows me to recommend the right tool to the right photographer, rather than a one-size-fits-all verdict.

Choosing between the Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax K-1 essentially boils down to what kind of photographer you are:

  • Want a compact, versatile superzoom that fits in your pocket? SZ-30MR.
  • Need a professional-quality DSLR with full-frame sensor and expansive system? K-1.

In either case, know exactly what compromises you’re accepting, and be sure you’re buying the best camera for your particular needs.

Thank you for reading this in-depth comparison. If you have any questions or want real-world tips tailored to your shooting style, feel free to ask!

Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax K-1 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax K-1
 Olympus SZ-30MRPentax K-1
General Information
Company Olympus Pentax
Model type Olympus SZ-30MR Pentax K-1
Class Small Sensor Superzoom Advanced DSLR
Introduced 2011-03-02 2016-02-17
Physical type Compact Mid-size SLR
Sensor Information
Processor Chip TruePic III+ -
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" Full frame
Sensor measurements 6.17 x 4.55mm 35.9 x 24mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 861.6mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixel 36 megapixel
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 and 16:9 3:2
Max resolution 4608 x 3456 7360 x 4912
Max native ISO 3200 204800
Min native ISO 80 100
RAW files
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch to focus
Continuous AF
Single AF
Tracking AF
Selective AF
AF center weighted
AF multi area
AF live view
Face detect focusing
Contract detect focusing
Phase detect focusing
Total focus points - 33
Cross type focus points - 25
Lens
Lens support fixed lens Pentax KAF2
Lens zoom range 25-600mm (24.0x) -
Maximum aperture f/3.0-6.9 -
Macro focusing distance 1cm -
Total lenses - 151
Crop factor 5.8 1
Screen
Display type Fixed Type Fully Articulated
Display sizing 3 inches 3.2 inches
Resolution of display 460k dots 1,037k dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch screen
Display tech TFT Hypercrystal III Color LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder coverage - 100 percent
Viewfinder magnification - 0.7x
Features
Min shutter speed 4 secs 30 secs
Max shutter speed 1/1700 secs 1/8000 secs
Continuous shutter rate 2.0fps 4.4fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual mode
Exposure compensation - Yes
Set WB
Image stabilization
Inbuilt flash
Flash distance 4.00 m no built-in flash
Flash settings Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Fill-in Auto Flash Discharge, Auto Flash + Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On + Red-eye Reduction, Slow-speed Sync, Slow-speed Sync + Red-eye, P-TTL, Trailing Curtain Sync, Contrast-control-sync, High-speed sync, Wireless sync
External flash
AEB
White balance bracketing
Max flash synchronize - 1/200 secs
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (30 fps)1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 180 (30fps) 1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p)
Max video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video file format MPEG-4 MPEG-4, H.264
Microphone support
Headphone support
Connectivity
Wireless Eye-Fi Connected Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None Built-in
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 226 grams (0.50 lb) 1010 grams (2.23 lb)
Dimensions 106 x 69 x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") 137 x 110 x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested 96
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 25.4
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 14.6
DXO Low light rating not tested 3280
Other
Battery life 220 shots 760 shots
Battery style Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery ID LI-50B D-LI90
Self timer Yes (2 or 12 sec) Yes (2 or 12 sec, custom)
Time lapse recording
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I)
Card slots Single Two
Retail pricing $279 $1,499