Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Pentax WG-1

Its time to look a little more in depth at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Pentax WG-1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the WG-1 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-31MR iHS was unveiled 13 months after the WG-1 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief view of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores vs the WG-1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Pentax Optio WG-1. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has outer measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax WG-1 has proportions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Pentax WG-1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilising during that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS compared to the WG-1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and WG-1 is 89 and 93 respectively.

Generally, its hard to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions purely by going through a spec sheet. The image underneath will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-31MR iHS and WG-1.

As you can see, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to produce greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more recent SZ-31MR iHS is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.