Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic FS42

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic FS42, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap between the sensor resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and FS42 (10MP) and the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and FS42 (1/2.5") enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

Photobucket discusses licensing 13 billion images with AI firms

The SZ-31MR iHS was brought out 2 years after the FS42 which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before getting in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up against the FS42 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Panasonic FS42 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS comes with outer measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic FS42 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic FS42 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the FS42.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and FS42 is 89 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizes merely by going over technical specs. The image below will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-31MR iHS and FS42.

As you have seen, both of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The SZ-31MR iHS due to its bigger sensor will make achieving bokeh easier and the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS will offer you greater detail having its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots far more aggressively. The younger SZ-31MR iHS is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.