Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Pentax WS80

In this article, we are matching up the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Pentax WS80, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. There exists a huge gap among the sensor resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and WS80 (10MP) but they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The SZ-31MR iHS was introduced 2 years later than the WS80 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up versus the WS80 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Pentax Optio WS80. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS features external 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 Pentax WS80 has proportions of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Pentax WS80 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS versus the WS80.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-31MR iHS and WS80 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to see the gap in sensor sizing only by viewing a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-31MR iHS and WS80.

As you can see, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to render extra detail using its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos far more aggressively. The newer SZ-31MR iHS is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.