Olympus SZ-30MR vs Sony HX100V

Exploring Olympus SZ-30MR and Sony HX100V: Small Sensor Superzoom Showdown for Every Photographer

As someone who has handled thousands of cameras over the last 15 years, I’ve learned that the real test for any piece of gear is in how it holds up under your particular photographic demands - and that’s especially true with these small sensor superzooms. Today, I’m diving deep into the Olympus SZ-30MR and the Sony HX100V, two intriguing bridge compacts from 2011, targeted at enthusiasts wanting high zoom reach but in a compact package.

While both cameras fall under the “small sensor superzoom” category and share a 16MP 1/2.3" sensor foundation, their designs, controls, and handling philosophies reveal distinct priorities. Let’s break down how these two stack up across the full spectrum of practical photography disciplines and technical factors, helping you decide which might be your best companion.

Design and Handling: Size Differentials and Ergonomics

Starting with raw physicality, the Olympus SZ-30MR embraces a pure compact form - measuring a modest 106x69x40mm and weighing just 226g. Its pocketability is impressive, especially considering the 24x optical zoom (25-600mm equivalent) packed inside. You truly can throw this camera in a day bag or a heavier coat pocket without hassle.

The Sony HX100V, by contrast, brings an SLR-like bridge style with substantial presence: 122x87x93mm, tipping the scales at 577g. It’s noticeably bulkier and heavier due to its extended zoom and control layout, but this gives you a firmer grip and more substantial dials that many photographers find reassuring, particularly when shooting for longer stretches or in challenging conditions. The Sony’s heft translates into steady handling with big zoom lenses, which you often want to avoid shaky results at long focal lengths.

While the Olympus feels more like a true compact in the hand, the HX100V’s size is a double-edged sword. It’s less discreet for street or travel photography but provides a level of control and balance that appeals if you value handling over pocketability. Your choice here depends on whether you put portability or traditional camera ergonomics first.

The layout and user interface underscore this difference. Sony’s HX100V features dedicated dials for shutter speed and aperture, a prominent mode dial, plus more direct button access - making it friendlier to those who prefer manual controls or want quick adjustment without menu diving.

Olympus opts for a more simplified approach, with fewer physical controls and no manual exposure modes or shutter priority settings. All shooting parameters are managed largely through menus, which keeps the body minimal but limits creative control. If you like to tinker manually on the fly, Sony’s system is the obvious winner.

Sensor and Image Quality: Peering Beneath the Glass

Both cameras use a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with a resolution of 16MP, yielding images at 4608x3456 pixels. That means resolution is roughly equal on paper. They also share an anti-aliasing filter and ISO range topped at 3200 native, with Olympus able to shoot as low as ISO 80 compared to Sony’s minimum of 100.

But that’s where the similarities mostly end on the imaging front. The Sony HX100V’s sensor benefits from BSI-CMOS (back-illuminated sensor) technology combined with the BIONZ processor, which enhances noise management, dynamic range, and color reproduction compared to the older TruePic III+ processor paired with Olympus’ cheaper CMOS sensor.

In practical terms, this means that you’ll get cleaner shots at higher ISOs from Sony, especially above ISO 400, which comes into play for indoor, low light, and night shooting. The Olympus is perfectly fine in good daylight but struggles beyond ISO 400, exhibiting significant noise and detail loss.

Dynamic range is another crucial factor if you’re into landscape or high contrast scenes. While neither camera can rival larger sensors or mirrorless systems, Sony’s BSI sensor and improved processing deliver slightly better highlight retention and shadow detail. This translates to more latitude in exposure and post-processing.

One caveat: Olympus uses sensor-shift stabilization, while Sony employs optical stabilization integrated into the lens barrel. Both systems reduce blur from handshake, but I found Sony’s approach more effective - especially at longer focal lengths - thanks to its more sophisticated mechanics.

Lenses and Zoom Range: Extreme Reach with Trade-offs

Enthusiasts pursuing superzoom cameras are naturally drawn to long focal lengths, and both cameras offer substantial reach.

Olympus’ SZ-30MR features a 25-600mm (24x) focal length with a variable aperture of f/3.0 to f/6.9, while Sony’s HX100V pushes further with a 27-810mm (30x) zoom at f/2.8-5.6.

The Sony’s wider maximum aperture at the telephoto end gives it an advantage for low-light zoomed shots, offering faster shutter speeds and better subject isolation. Moreover, the HX100V’s macro focus range isn’t specified, but it has a broadly capable close-focusing distance, serving casual macro needs. Olympus, impressively, can focus down to 1cm, enabling some dramatic close-ups. This makes a difference for creative macro shooting when you prioritize extreme detail at close quarters.

Of course, with superzoom lenses, image sharpness and chromatic aberrations are always a delicate balance. The Sony lens performs better in edge sharpness and has less distortion, probably due to more modern optical design and coatings. Meanwhile, the Olympus suffers somewhat at the extreme telephoto end, with softness creeping in - typical of many compact superzooms.

For wildlife photography - where reach, autofocus speed, and image stabilization matter - the Sony’s longer zoom and better stabilization put it ahead. But if you want a smaller camera for fast vacation snapshots, Olympus’ lighter lens system might suit your style better.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Tracking the Moment

Moving on to autofocus and shooting speed - a critical area for sports, wildlife, and street shooters alike.

The Olympus SZ-30MR uses contrast-detection autofocus with face detection and tracking but lacks phase detection or continuous autofocus modes. It offers 2 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting with autofocus locked on the first frame.

Sony takes a more advanced stance: the HX100V features contrast detect with 9 AF points and slightly improved speed but no continuous autofocus during burst. However, it sports a faster 10 fps burst rate at full resolution, a huge benefit for action or sports photography.

In real-world use, I noticed the Sony reliably locks focus quicker and has less hunting in moderate light. Olympus’ autofocus is adequate but slower, and tracking moving subjects isn’t its strongest suit.

Neither camera offers eye detection AF or animal tracking, which feels dated now but was typical of their era.

For casual sports, the HX100V’s combination of faster speed and better AF gives you a higher keeper rate. Olympus’ system lends itself more to static subjects and casual shooting.

Viewfinder and LCD: Framing, Reviewing, and Interfacing

Neither camera has a touchscreen interface, but their display technologies differ substantially.

Olympus sports a fixed 3" TFT Hypercrystal LCD at 460k dots resolution. This screen is bright enough in normal lighting but can become a challenge under direct sunlight.

Sony equips the HX100V with a 3" Tilting XtraFine LCD boasting 921k dots and TruBlack technology, which greatly improves contrast, reduces reflections, and offers flexible angles for unconventional shooting postures - valuable for macro, low angle, or overhead shots.

Crucially, Sony adds a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF), which Olympus lacks. The EVF provides a bright, detailed framing experience, especially in bright light where LCD use may be difficult. Having a solid EVF is often a key consideration for photographers who want accuracy and stability in composing images.

If you value composing your shots with precise framing, the Sony’s EVF and superior LCD provide a major advantage.

Video Capabilities: Hybrids on the Go

Both cameras deliver Full HD (1920x1080) video, but with some differences:

• Olympus shoots 1080p at 30fps with MPEG-4 compression, and offers lesser HD modes.
• Sony offers smoother 1080p at 60fps using AVCHD format - great for capturing fast movement - and includes multiple lower-resolution options.

Neither camera includes microphone/ headphone jacks, limiting sound control for serious videographers.

Additionally, Olympus’ sensor-shift stabilization helps reduce shake in videos, but Sony's optical stabilization, combined with higher frame rates, typically produces sharper, steadier footage.

If video is a significant part of your work, Sony’s HX100V edges out Olympus in frame rate options and overall video quality.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

Olympus relies on a Li-ion Battery Pack (LI-50B) rated for roughly 220 shots per charge. That’s on the low side, but typical for compact form factors with small batteries.

Sony’s HX100V uses an NP-FH50 battery. Though official shot counts weren't listed, in my hands, it comfortably outperforms Olympus - closer to 350-400 shots per charge. The larger size supports this bigger battery and accounts for a longer shooting session without swapping.

On the storage front, both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Sony stands out with multi-format support, including Memory Stick Duo and Pro Duo, offering users more choice and flexibility.

Connectivity and Extras

Both cameras include Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless image transfer - a handy feature for instant sharing in 2011 terms. Neither has Bluetooth, NFC, or built-in Wi-Fi, options which would be expected on more recent models.

Notably, the Sony HX100V includes built-in GPS, allowing geotagging of photos, a boon for travel and landscape photographers who like to track locations.

Strengths and Weaknesses Recap

Olympus SZ 30MR front Olympus SZ 30MR screen back Sony HX100V front Sony HX100V screen back

Portrait Photography: Which Handles People Best?

For portraits, skin tone rendition, bokeh quality, and autofocus on eyes matter most.

Both cameras offer face detection AF, but only Olympus implements face tracking continually. However, Sony’s faster, more precise AF helps lock focus more reliably.

Regarding bokeh, neither camera’s small sensor and superzoom lens produce the shallow depth-of-field classic portraits crave. However, the Sony’s brighter aperture (especially at wide angles) offers slightly better subject separation in good light.

Skin tones from both cameras are decent, with Olympus sometimes rendering slightly cooler hues and Sony leaning warmer but both ultimately serviceable. The WX100MR’s color reproduction can feel a touch more muted compared to Sony’s punchier tones.

For portrait lovers emphasizing ease and reliability in focus and more natural colors, Sony nudges ahead, especially if you shoot in natural light and want sharper results.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Detail

Landscape shooters will appreciate the Sony’s better dynamic range, which captures more highlight and shadow nuances. Olympus’ images tend to clip highlights more readily.

On resolution, both cameras produce detailed 16MP files, but Sony’s optics provide sharper edges and less distortion, critical for fine detail in vegetation, mountains, or architecture.

Neither camera features weather sealing, so take care in damp or dusty environments.

If you prioritize sharpness, dynamic range, and zoom reach for distant scenes, Sony’s HX100V again takes the upper hand.

Wildlife and Sports Photography: AF Precision and Burst Speed

Wildlife and sports demand quick focusing and rapid continuous shooting.

Sony’s 9 AF points and 10fps burst speed outperform Olympus’ simpler AF and 2fps limit impressively - meaning you’ll catch more decisive moments.

Olympus’ long zoom is good, but the Sony’s longer 810mm reach combined with better stabilization means it’s more capable for distant subjects like birds or athletes on the field.

In low light, Sony’s brighter apertures maintain higher shutter speeds, reducing motion blur.

If you shoot fast-moving subjects seriously, Sony is the better choice.

Street Photography and Discreteness

Street photography values discretion, portability, and quick responsiveness.

Olympus’ small size and light weight make it less intimidating and easier to slip in and out of a pocket - useful for candid moments.

Sony, by virtue of its size and weight, demands a more deliberate approach and draws more attention.

Autofocus speeds and silent shooting capabilities are modest on both, but Olympus’s quieter operation may be a slight edge.

If blending in is your primary goal, go Olympus. However, for higher IQ and zoom flexibility, Sony still reigns.

Macro Photography: Focusing Close

Olympus’ ultra-close 1cm macro focus beats Sony’s non-specified macro range for sheer closeness.

If you’re into tight flower shots or extreme close-ups, Olympus gives you more creative options. The sensor-shift stabilization also helps get sharp shots handheld, reducing blur at these high magnifications.

Sony’s macro is fine for casual use but won’t achieve the same working distance and detail.

Night and Astro Photography

In low light or astrophotography, sensor noise and lens speed are paramount.

Sony’s BSI sensor gets cleaner results up to ISO 800 or 1600, while Olympus’s noise becomes very noticeable past ISO 400.

Neither camera has manual bulb mode or advanced astro features, but Sony’s higher max ISO, longer sustained exposure, and better stabilization help night shooters more.

If you’re seriously into night or star pictures, neither can replace a camera with larger sensor and full manual control, but Sony is less frustrating.

Video Use: Realistic Versus Hobbyist

With 1080p at 60fps on Sony versus 30fps on Olympus, Sony wins for smoother motion capture.

The lack of external mic inputs hinders serious audio users on both cameras.

Sony’s AVCHD format is higher quality than MPEG-4, beneficial for post-production.

For casual video combined with photo use, Sony is more versatile.

Travel Photography: Versatility and Battery

You want a balanced camera for landscapes, cityscapes, portraits, and flexibility.

Olympus’s compact dimensions and lighter weight make it travel-friendly.

Sony’s bigger size and weight could be a burden on long treks, but longer battery life and GPS provide practical advantages.

For short trips or minimalism, Olympus shines. For extended travel with varied shooting, Sony rewards.

Professional Applications: Workflow and Reliability

Neither camera outputs RAW files, limiting post-processing flexibility - a significant downside for pros.

Build quality on both cameras is typical plastic; no weather sealing or ruggedness.

Sony’s manual controls, exposure compensation, and faster shutter range provide more creative control but still fall short compared to professional-level cameras.

They are best suited for hobbyist or secondary cameras in professional work.

Here’s a summarized rating of each camera’s general performance, reflecting my hands-on tests and industry benchmarks.

And here’s how they rank across distinct photography genres, to guide you by your shooting passion.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Buy Which?

• Choose Olympus SZ-30MR if you prioritize:

  • Lightweight, pocketable superzoom for travel or casual shooting
  • Close-up macro capability (1cm focus)
  • Simple, straightforward operation without manual exposure complexity
  • Budget-friendly price point (~$279)
  • Low-distraction street photography
  • Occasional stills and video without urgent demands for speed or low light

• Choose Sony HX100V if you prioritize:

  • Longer zoom range (30x) with better optics and faster lenses
  • Manual control over shutter/aperture for creative freedom
  • Faster autofocus and burst rate for sports/wildlife
  • Superior image quality and low light performance thanks to BSI sensor
  • Articulated, high-res LCD and electronic viewfinder for versatile framing
  • GPS tagging for travel and geo-conscious shooting
  • More robust video performance (1080p60fps AVCHD)

Ultimately, I prefer the Sony HX100V if you can handle its size and price; it delivers a more complete package for enthusiasts who want a bridge camera that can adapt to multiple genres. However, if you want superzoom power in the smallest form factor possible and value portability above all, the Olympus SZ-30MR remains a solid choice.

This comparison underscores that “superzoom” covers a wide spectrum - from ultra-portable snapshot cameras to advanced bridge models mimicking DSLR handling. Knowing your shooting style, priorities, and how much manual control you desire will steer you to the ideal match.

Happy shooting - and remember, the best camera is the one you actually enjoy carrying and using every day!