Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS1

Here is a in-depth overview of the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic ZS1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and ZS1 (10MP) and the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ-31MR iHS was announced 2 years later than the ZS1 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick summation of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up vs the ZS1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has outside 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 ZS1 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic ZS1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS and the ZS1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS1 is 89 and 91 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing purely by checking out a spec sheet. The visual here might provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS1.

As you can see, both of those cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ-31MR iHS using its larger sensor will make shooting bokeh less difficult and the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS will show extra detail with its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics way more aggressively. The newer SZ-31MR iHS is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.