Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic FZ80

Following is a complete analysis of the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic FZ80, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the FZ80 (18MP) is relatively well matched and they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was released 5 years before the FZ80 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores vs the FZ80 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic FZ80 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS comes with physical dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ80 has specifications of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") with a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic FZ80 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS versus the FZ80.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and FZ80 is 89 and 63 respectively.

Typically, its tough to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by reading through technical specs. The picture underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-31MR iHS and FZ80.

As you have seen, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic FZ80 to give you extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged SZ-31MR iHS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.