Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS30

Below, we are contrasting the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS30, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the ZS30 (18MP) is fairly similar and they come with the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was announced 11 months prior to the ZS30 so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up versus the ZS30 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has got exterior 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) while the Panasonic ZS30 has specifications of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS30 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS compared to the ZS30.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS30 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements just by reading a spec sheet. The photograph below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS30.

As you can see, each of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Panasonic ZS30 to offer you extra detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop images somewhat more aggressively. The older SZ-31MR iHS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.