Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic S1H

Following is a extended review of the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic S1H, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and S1H (24MP) and the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and S1H (Full frame) provide totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-31MR iHS was revealed 8 years earlier than the S1H which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic S1H being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going into a detailed comparison, here is a short view of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up vs the S1H when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Panasonic S1H Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS enjoys 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) while the Panasonic S1H has measurements of 151mm x 114mm x 110mm (5.9" x 4.5" x 4.3") and a weight of 1052 grams (2.32 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic S1H in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the S1H.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-31MR iHS and S1H is 89 and 52 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizes only by going through specifications. The image below may provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-31MR iHS and S1H.

Plainly, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SZ-31MR iHS with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic S1H will show more detail because of its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots more aggressively. The more aged SZ-31MR iHS will be behind with regard to sensor technology.