Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Olympus TG-810: The Ultimate Hands-On Compact Camera Showdown

When it comes to choosing a compact camera that punches above its weight, especially in the tough realm of superzoom and rugged designs, Olympus has been a long-time contender. The SZ-31MR iHS and TG-810, both iconic models from the early 2010s, represent two distinct philosophies - the former aiming at zoom versatility with a super-long lens, the latter at durability and waterproof reliability. Having spent countless hours with both cameras in real shooting scenarios, I'll walk you through the practical strengths and weaknesses each brings to the table, so you can make an informed choice, whether you’re a weekend adventurer or a photo enthusiast hunting for a budget-friendly companion.

Let’s get this hands-on comparison well underway, dissecting physical design, sensor tech, image quality, autofocus, performance in various photography disciplines, video capabilities, and the overall value proposition.

Getting the Feel: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

First impressions matter, especially when you’re lugging gear for hours or trying to operate controls quickly in the heat of the moment.

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS measures 106x69x40 mm, weighing in at 226 grams. Its relatively deep body hugs your hand comfortably, with a safe grip for steady shooting. Meanwhile, TG-810 is a bit more compact at 100x65x26 mm and lighter at 215 grams, thanks mostly to its rugged design aimed at portability and rough environments.

The SZ-31MR’s slightly chunkier frame translates to better ergonomics for those who like clubs for their thumbs - robust grip surfaces and buttons are more accessible even with gloves, making it more comfortable for longer sessions or in colder weather photography.

Looking at the top plate, the SZ-31MR offers more tactile control - zoom lever wraps around the shutter button, plus dedicated playback and mode buttons within reach - which helps speed things up. The TG-810, tailored for simplicity, opts for fewer buttons and a more sealed interface to withstand water and shock. Sharp shooters don’t mind the pared-back setup, but if you crave manual tweaking on the fly, the SZ-31MR edges ahead.

Who wins here? SZ-31MR for everyday shooting comfort and button access, TG-810 for rugged grab-and-go simplicity.

Sensor and Image Quality: Can Bigger Zoom Without Bigger Sensor Deliver?

Both cameras employ a classic 1/2.3" sensor, the standard compact-friendly size from their era - small, but still capable.

However, the SZ-31MR uses a modern 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor with a size of 6.17 x 4.55 mm, while the TG-810 sports a 14MP CCD sensor of identical physical size. This difference is huge in real-world terms. Back-illuminated CMOS sensors, like the SZ-31MR’s, offer improved noise performance and dynamic range compared to CCDs, which tend to lag in low-light scenarios and high ISO tolerances.

SZ-31MR maxes out native ISO 6400, giving a technically greater high ISO reach, whereas TG-810 caps at ISO 1600. Don’t expect magic from such tiny sensors at these ranges, but the SZ-31MR will yield crisper low-light images that are easier to salvage in post.

Resolution-wise, SZ-31MR’s 4608x3456 pixels gives you more cropping wiggle room and print-friendly details compared to TG-810’s 4288x3216. Both have anti-aliasing filters to reduce moiré, but that standard blurs some micro-texture, balancing sharpness and artifact control.

In summary: SZ-31MR has the technological edge in sensor architecture and raw resolution for cleaner, sharper photos, especially under less-than-ideal lighting.

Viewing and Composing: LCD and Interface Matters

Neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder - standard for compacts of their times - so the rear LCD is your window into the world.

Both feature a 3-inch HyperCrystal III TFT LCD with 920k dots resolution, delivering bright and reasonably sharp live views. The SZ-31MR innovates with touchscreen capability, which is surprisingly responsive and useful for quick AF point selection or menu navigation. TG-810 sticks to traditional physical buttons and dials; this may be preferred for underwater or snowy shooting where gloves make touchscreens tricky.

The SZ’s touch support makes quick adjustments intuitive and even fun, while the TG-810’s straightforward interface prevents accidental inputs and keeps controls glove-friendly. For composition, the screens are similar in size and detail, good for framing but not foolproof in bright sunlight without a hood or shading.

Lens Versatility and Zoom: The Tale of the Telephoto Giants

This is where these two diverge dramatically.

SZ-31MR iHS boasts an astonishing 25-600mm equivalent zoom (24x optical zoom), blazing past most compacts and even many superzooms on the market.

TG-810 sports a modest 28-140mm zoom (5x optical zoom), which covers wide-angle to moderate telephoto but won’t satisfy anyone after looming wildlife or far-off sports shots.

With a max aperture range of f/3.0-6.9, the SZ-31MR offers slightly brighter wide-angle capability than TG’s f/3.9-5.9 range. However, note that the SZ-31MR’s aperture becomes quite narrow by telephoto extremes, challenging in low light without stabilization (fortunately offered on both cameras).

The real-world impact? SZ’s huge zoom range is an enormous advantage for travel, wildlife, and even sports if you don’t have room (or budget) for dedicated telephoto lenses. TG-810 favors rugged adventurers who prioritize durability over reach.

To put it bluntly: SZ-31MR is a zoom beast; TG-810 is compact and tough.

Autofocus and Shooting Speeds: Track Your Subject Like a Pro (or Not)

Neither camera offers advanced manual focus options or pro-grade focus tracking. Both rely on contrast-detection AF with face detection, but numbers say SZ-31MR has a slight jump with “aftracking: yes” and continuous autofocus modes.

Burst speeds? SZ-31MR captures 7 frames per second (fps), an exceptional feat for its class, great for fleeting moments in wildlife or street photography. TG-810 struggles with just 1 fps continuous shooting, a major limitation if you chase fast-moving subjects.

In practice, SZ-31MR’s AF is quicker and more agile, locking focus briskly even in low contrast settings. TG-810 is slower and sometimes hunts longer, but its rugged build means you might shoot less often in quick sequences anyway.

SZ-31MR is clearly aimed at more dynamic shooting scenarios, TG-810 at steady, deliberate composition constrained by physical durability priorities.

Weather Sealing vs. Everyday Use: Who Survives Where?

If you often shoot on mountain hikes, near water, or in rough climates, read on.

TG-810 is the rugged champion: waterproof up to 10m, dustproof, shockproof from drops of 2m, and even freezeproof to -10°C. That’s a blessing for adventure shooters, snorkelers, or anyone who needs indestructible reliability.

SZ-31MR has no weather sealing, making it vulnerable to moisture and dust - fine for casual daylight photographers who keep gear protected but a real no-go for rough outdoors.

If your camera might take a beating in the wild, TG-810 is the only safe bet here.

Zoom, Macro, and Close-Up Capabilities

Both have useful close-focusing potential: SZ-31MR can focus as close as 1 cm, TG-810’s macro limit is 3 cm.

In real-world macro shooting, that 1 cm focus on SZ-31MR makes it more suited for tiny subjects like insects or flowers, while TG-810 can still handle casual close-ups well but with less magnification.

Both cameras offer sensor-shift image stabilization. While that helps hand-holding at long focal lengths or slow shutter speeds, shooting extreme macros requires steady alphas - a tripod or steady rest always helps. Neither camera offers focus stacking or bracketing.

Image Quality Deep Dive: Portrait, Landscape, Wildlife, and More

Now, let's analyze performances across the ten photography genres most enthusiasts care about, keeping in mind these cameras' limitations as compacts.

Olympus SZ 31MR iHS front Olympus SZ 31MR iHS screen back Olympus TG 810 front Olympus TG 810 screen back

Portrait Photography

• SZ-31MR excels at face/eye detection autofocus, reliable under indoor or daylight settings.
• Skin tone rendering is decent but limited by sensor size and lack of RAW, so color grading latitude is restricted.
• Bokeh is somewhat soft at the longest zooms given narrow apertures but serviceable for background separation; TG-810’s shorter zoom and smaller aperture range limit this effect.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR for casual portraits with subject tracking; TG-810 okay for snapshots in rough settings.

Landscape Photography

• SZ-31MR’s higher resolution sensor and wider focal length give better flexibility for detailed landscapes.
• Dynamic range is limited by sensor size and CCD/CMOS differences but SZ’s BSI-CMOS edge delivers better shadow recovery.
• Neither camera offers weather sealing, except TG-810’s rugged body, but the TG’s shorter zoom limits framing compositions.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR for technical landscapes; TG-810 for adventurous outdoor use with risk of water/dust.

Wildlife Photography

• Telephoto reach of SZ-31MR is a game-changer, enabling captures of distant animals without a huge lens investment.
• Fast burst speeds unlock more keeper chances on unpredictable subjects.
• Autofocus is good but not professional speed; patience required.
• TG-810’s limited zoom and 1 fps burst mean it’s a poor fit here.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR is modestly capable wildlife-wise; TG-810 is not.

Sports Photography

• Similar to wildlife: SZ-31MR’s 7 fps enables moderate action capture; autofocus continuous modes help track players.
• TG-810 too slow to keep up; better for casual family sports shots.
• Low light challenges exist for both, but SZ’s higher ISO ceiling provides some latitude.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR if you want to capture action on a budget; TG-810 for rugged environments, not speed.

Street Photography

• Compactness, quiet operation, and autofocus speed matter.
• TG-810’s compact rugged frame is less conspicuous, but slower AF may frustrate.
• SZ-31MR better control and touchscreen enhance quick framing decisions.
• No electronic viewfinders limit composition confidence outdoors.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR for more serious street shooters; TG-810 for adventure street snaps.

Macro Photography

• SZ-31MR’s 1 cm focus and sensor-shift IS combine for better macro detail.
• TG-810 still useful for casual macro shots.
• No manual focus or focus stacking on either limits professional macro work.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR edges out here.

Night and Astro Photography

• Small sensors limit both, but SZ-31MR’s CMOS sensor with ISO 6400 offers more flexibility.
• No long exposure modes or bulb; max shutter speeds similar.
• Both cameras suffer noise at high ISO but SZ is superior.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR for low light; TG-810 only in well-lit or day-night conditions.

Video Capabilities

• SZ-31MR shoots up to Full HD 1080p at 30 fps using MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs.
• TG-810 caps at 720p 30 fps.
• Neither offers microphone ports or advanced stabilization for video.
• Both lack 4K or high frame rate slow-mo modes.

Video is a bonus feature here rather than a strong suit, but SZ-31MR dominates with superior resolution.

Travel Photography

• SZ-31MR’s long zoom and touchscreen controls suit versatile travel needs.
• TG-810 excels in tough environments - no worry about water, shock, dust.
• Battery life is modestly better on TG-810 (220 shots vs. 200) but both require carry spares for extended trips.
• SZ-31MR bulkier but easier to handle; TG-810 ultra portable.

Recommendation: SZ-31MR for variety and image quality; TG-810 for rugged adventure travel.

Professional Work

• Neither camera meets professional standards for RAW, build, or interchangeable lenses.
• Files are compressed JPGs, limiting post workflows.
• SZ-31MR better for casual pro use or backups.
• TG-810 not recommended for commercial shoots but excellent as a durable secondary camera.

Build Quality and Durability: Who’s More Club-Ready?

Only TG-810 boasts serious weatherproofing and rugged claims - waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof. Very few compacts offer this level of protection. SZ-31MR is a classic compact with no reinforcement; treat with care.

If you anticipate harsh environments or outdoor abuse, TG-810 is a no-brainer.

Connectivity and Storage: Sharing Your Shots

Both include Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless transfers, USB 2.0, and HDMI outputs, but lack Bluetooth and WiFi (common for their generation).

Storage is limited to single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots, standard fare.

Battery Life and Portability

• SZ-31MR rated about 200 shots per charge
• TG-810 slightly better at 220 shots

Neither is stellar; both require spares for serious outings.

Price and Value: The Hard Truth

When announced:

• SZ-31MR usually lands at very affordable prices secondhand, sometimes under $150 due to age but offering great zoom.
• TG-810 new price hovered around $427, a steep premium for ruggedness.

Today, shopping for either probably means used or discounted models. For budget-conscious buyers who value versatility, SZ-31MR is a value powerhouse. Those who require weatherproof ruggedness will pay up for TG-810’s features.

Summary Table: Strengths and Trade-offs

Let’s See How They Stack Up: Performance Scores by Genre

Olympus SZ-31MR shines in wildlife, sports, and travel versatility, while TG-810 scores strongly in rugged outdoor and travel sectors but lags in technical imaging categories.

Overall, SZ-31MR shows stronger imaging performance, whereas TG-810 defines durability and field toughness.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Buy Which?

Choose Olympus SZ-31MR iHS if:

• You’re a photography enthusiast craving ultimate zoom versatility on a budget.
• You shoot portraits, wildlife, or landscapes where image quality and autofocus speed matter.
• You want Full HD video in a compact package.
• You mostly shoot in controlled or light environments.
• You appreciate touchscreen controls and quick access to settings.
• You’re less concerned about ruggedness and more about photographic options.

Choose Olympus TG-810 if:

• You pursue adventure photography in wet, dusty, or harsh conditions.
• You want a tough, reliable camera that survives drops, water submersion, and freezing temps.
• You prioritize portability and damage-proof design over zoom reach or resolution.
• Video is a casual feature, and you’re okay with HD 720p.
• You shoot snapshots and don’t require rapid autofocus or high burst speeds.
• Your priority is peace of mind in extreme environments, not professional image quality.

Parting Words from My Lab and Field Experience

I’ve found both these Olympus cameras to be excellent examples of how product design focuses define final usage. The SZ-31MR iHS is a zoom enthusiast’s dream compact, handling everything but the most demanding professional needs, while the TG-810 is a fortress of reliability that won’t let you down on your wildest journeys, begging forgiveness for slower operation and lower image specs.

In real life, your needs and shooting context decide the winner - so weigh zoom vs. toughness carefully. Neither is a perfect all-rounder, but both excel emphatically where designed. And hey, for cheapskates and casual shooters in harsh conditions, the TG’s ruggedness is worth every penny.

If you want to dissect these cameras in person, I recommend grabbing them hands-on at a camera store or (better yet) renting for a weekend adventure - nothing beats firsthand experience to know if that zoom reach or rugged frame is your ideal match.

Happy shooting, and may your next photographs be the best yet!

Olympus SZ 31MR iHS front Olympus SZ 31MR iHS screen back Olympus TG 810 front Olympus TG 810 screen back