Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS5

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS5, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and ZS5 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was introduced 21 months later than the ZS5 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a full comparison, below is a short view of how the SZ-31MR iHS grades versus the ZS5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and proportions. 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) and the Panasonic ZS5 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS against the ZS5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS5 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizing merely by seeing specifications. The photograph here will give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS5.

Plainly, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to produce more detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop photographs far more aggressively. The newer SZ-31MR iHS will have an advantage in sensor tech.