Olympus SZ-30MR vs Sony HX99

Its time to take a closer look at the Olympus SZ-30MR and Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is relatively close but the SZ-30MR (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ-30MR was launched 8 years before the HX99 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the SZ-30MR matches up versus the HX99 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-30MR and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-30MR comes with exterior 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) whilst the Sony HX99 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SZ-30MR and Sony HX99 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ-30MR compared to the HX99.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-30MR and HX99 is 89 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it's tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes only by viewing specifications. The pic underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-30MR and HX99.

Plainly, both of those cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The SZ-30MR due to its bigger sensor will make getting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Sony HX99 will provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged SZ-30MR will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.