Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic F5

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic F5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the F5 (14MP) is relatively well matched and they possess the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The SZ-31MR iHS was brought out 11 months earlier than the F5 so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores versus the F5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-F5. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic F5 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS comes with physical dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic F5 has proportions of 97mm x 58mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic F5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the F5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and F5 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to see the difference between sensor sizing merely by checking technical specs. The graphic underneath should give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-31MR iHS and F5.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to give more detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs far more aggressively. The older SZ-31MR iHS is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.