Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic GF6

Here is a thorough analysis of the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic GF6, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the GF6 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and GF6 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor sizing.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The SZ-31MR iHS was unveiled 14 months before the GF6 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF6 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the SZ-31MR iHS grades against the GF6 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic GF6 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you should think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS enjoys 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) whilst the Panasonic GF6 has dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 323 grams (0.71 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic GF6 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS compared to the GF6.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and GF6 is 89 and 87 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing simply by checking out specs. The visual here should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-31MR iHS and GF6.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact MP but not the same sensor sizing. The SZ-31MR iHS features the smaller sensor which is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher. The older SZ-31MR iHS will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.