Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic GH5

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic GH5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the GH5 (20MP) is pretty close but the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and GH5 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-31MR iHS was unveiled 5 years prior to the GH5 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick overview of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up versus the GH5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Panasonic GH5 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS comes with external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic GH5 has specifications of 139mm x 98mm x 87mm (5.5" x 3.9" x 3.4") along with a weight of 725 grams (1.60 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic GH5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising during that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS versus the GH5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and GH5 is 89 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing only by looking through specs. The photograph underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-31MR iHS and GH5.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ-31MR iHS with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Panasonic GH5 will result in greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots way more aggressively. The older SZ-31MR iHS will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.