Olympus SZ-30MR vs Pentax VS20

Lets look a bit more in depth at the Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax VS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the VS20 (16MP) is relatively comparable and they come with the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-30MR was manufactured 10 months prior to the VS20 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick summation of how the SZ-30MR grades against the VS20 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax Optio VS20. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-30MR offers external dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax VS20 has measurements of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") with a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-30MR and Pentax VS20 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-30MR against the VS20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-30MR and VS20 is 89 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to visualize the gap in sensor sizing simply by going through specifications. The visual here may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-30MR and VS20.

To sum up, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the identical megapixels and you should expect comparable quality of photos however you may want to factor the release date of the cameras into account. The older SZ-30MR will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.