Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic GF2

Its time to take a deeper look at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic GF2, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and GF2 (12MP) and the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and GF2 (Four Thirds) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The SZ-31MR iHS was revealed 12 months later than the GF2 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick summation of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores versus the GF2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera frequently, you will have to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS provides exterior dimensions 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 GF2 has sizing of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic GF2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have during that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the GF2.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and GF2 is 89 and 88 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to envision the contrast in sensor sizing just by going through technical specs. The graphic here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-31MR iHS and GF2.

As you have seen, each of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SZ-31MR iHS with its smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh more difficult and the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS will produce extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The more modern SZ-31MR iHS will have an edge in sensor innovation.