Olympus SZ-30MR vs Sony WX500

Lets take a more detailed look at the Olympus SZ-30MR and Sony WX500, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the WX500 (18MP) is pretty well matched and they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ-30MR was released 5 years before the WX500 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SZ-30MR grades versus the WX500 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-30MR & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery & Sony WX500 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-30MR provides external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Sony WX500 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") and a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SZ-30MR and Sony WX500 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the SZ-30MR against the WX500.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-30MR and WX500 is 89 and 91 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizing purely by checking technical specs. The photograph below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-30MR and WX500.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Sony WX500 to resolve extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The older SZ-30MR is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.