Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS50

The following is a extended review of the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic ZS50, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a considerable difference between the resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and ZS50 (12MP) but they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-31MR iHS was launched 3 years prior to the ZS50 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise overview of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores versus the ZS50 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

If you're going to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS provides outer 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) and the Panasonic ZS50 has specifications of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic ZS50 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose at that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS versus the ZS50.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS50 is 89 and 90 respectively.

Usually, its difficult to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions only by looking at specs. The pic below will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS50.

All in all, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You can anticipate the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to resolve more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The more aged SZ-31MR iHS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.