Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic GM5

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic GM5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the GM5 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and GM5 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The SZ-31MR iHS was unveiled 3 years earlier than the GM5 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a concise summation of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores against the GM5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Panasonic GM5 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has got outside measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GM5 has proportions of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic GM5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS against the GM5.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-31MR iHS and GM5 is 89 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizes just by reading through specifications. The pic here will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-31MR iHS and GM5.

To sum up, both cameras offer the same exact resolution albeit different sensor sizes. The SZ-31MR iHS has got the tinier sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field harder. The more aged SZ-31MR iHS is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.