Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZR1

Here is a complete review of the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic ZR1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and ZR1 (12MP) but they use the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was unveiled 2 years later than the ZR1 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick overview of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores vs the ZR1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera often, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has outer measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR1 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic ZR1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have at the time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS compared to the ZR1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZR1 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Often, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading specs. The visual below will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZR1.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to offer you extra detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The more recent SZ-31MR iHS should have an edge in sensor innovation.