Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-10: In-Depth Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

Choosing your next camera often feels like navigating a maze of technical specs, design nuances, and evolving photography needs. Today, we delve into two vastly different cameras from different eras and categories: the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS, a compact superzoom released in 2012, and the Samsung GX-10, an advanced DSLR launched back in 2006. Each targets a distinct user base and photographic approach.

Our goal? To break down how these cameras stack up on key photographic aspects and technologies. Whether you’re into travel, portraits, landscape, action, or creative experimentation, this comprehensive comparison will help you assess which fits best in your toolkit.

At First Glance: Different Classes, Different Purposes

Before diving deep, let's set the scene by comparing their physical designs and how these affect usability.

The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is notably compact and pocketable compared to the significantly larger, DSLR-style Samsung GX-10.

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS

  • Compact body: 106x69x40 mm, 226 g
  • Fixed superzoom lens (25-600mm equiv.), no interchangeable optics
  • Sensor-shift image stabilization

• Samsung GX-10

  • Mid-size DSLR body: 142x101x70 mm, 793 g
  • Interchangeable lenses using Pentax KAF2 mount (vast lens ecosystem)
  • Larger grip and traditional DSLR ergonomics

The Olympus’s small footprint makes it ideal for travel and street shooting where discretion and lightweight gear are prized. The Samsung’s heft and robust DSLR style cater to serious photographers who prefer manual operation and lens interchangeability.

Sensor Tech and Image Quality: Small Sensor Compact vs APS-C DSLR

Sensor technology is foundational for image quality. Let's get technical but clear.

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS features a 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor with 16 MP effective resolution (4608x3456 pixels). Sensor area is approximately 28.07 mm².
• Samsung GX-10 employs a much larger APS-C CCD sensor with 10 MP resolution (3872x2592 pixels), sensor area ~368.95 mm².

What does this mean for you?

• Image detail and noise performance: The larger APS-C sensor in the GX-10 naturally offers superior dynamic range, better noise control at higher ISOs, and improved color depth thanks to more surface area collecting light. The Olympus’s smaller sensor is more prone to noise, especially above ISO 800-1600, though its 16 MP count provides a modest resolution advantage in perfect light.

• Color rendering: CCD sensors like in the GX-10 have a distinctive color character appealing to some photographers, though slower readout and higher power consumption are trade-offs.

• Lens equivalence & cropping: The Olympus lens’s enormous 24x zoom provides versatility but relies heavily on digital sharpening and onboard processing to extract detail. The GX-10’s crop factor of 1.5 means you need longer lenses for equivalent reach, but image integrity at native focal lengths is stronger.

In practical terms, for landscape or portrait shooters who prioritize image quality and file flexibility, the GX-10 holds an edge. Casual and travel photographers who value convenience and zoom range might appreciate the Olympus’s compact sensor system.

Handling and Control: Ergonomics That Shape Your Shooting Style

How a camera feels influences how inspired you feel behind the viewfinder.

• The GX-10’s DSLR style includes traditional controls: dedicated dials for shutter and aperture priority, manual exposure, and exposure compensation. Physical buttons and an optical pentaprism viewfinder (95% coverage, 0.64x magnification) encourage direct, tactile operation. This suits photographers who desire fast, intuitive access without diving into menus.

• The SZ-31MR iHS, by contrast, relies heavily on its touchscreen LCD interface (fixed 3" Hypercrystal III TFT with 920k dots), with fewer physical buttons and most controls accessed via menus or touchscreen taps. No electronic viewfinder means composing outdoors can be challenging in strong light.

The GX-10’s physical controls expose its advanced nature and professional aspirations. The Olympus opts for simplicity, making it approachable for beginners or those transitioning from smartphone photography.

The Olympus’s touchscreen simplifies menu navigation and live view focusing, while the Samsung’s smaller, lower-res LCD is geared for basic image review.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Moment

Autofocus (AF) systems and frame rates are critical for sports, wildlife, and street photographers.

• The Olympus uses contrast-detection AF on the sensor, typical for compacts. It’s fairly accurate in good light but slower and prone to hunting under dim conditions or fast action.

• The Samsung’s phase-detect system with 11 AF points and continuous AF is more responsive, better at tracking moving subjects, especially in daylight shooting sports or wildlife.

Burst rates favor the Olympus in theory (7 fps) but remember these are slower buffered JPEG sequences. The GX-10’s 3 fps continuous with interchangeable lenses and manual focus override better suits deliberate action capture.

Lens Options: Fixed Zoom vs Interchangeable Ecosystem

Your creative potential depends on your glass almost as much as your camera body.

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS:

  • Fixed lens, 25-600 mm equivalent (24x zoom)
  • Max aperture f/3.0-6.9, optical stabilization
  • Convenient for travel, all-in-one, macro focusing down to 1 cm

• Samsung GX-10:

  • Pentax KAF2 mount compatible with 151 lenses (from primes to zooms, macro to fisheye)
  • Full aperture range depends on chosen lens
  • Requires changing lenses but offers flexibility

If you prize hassle-free all-in-one versatility for vacation or casual shooting, the Olympus lens is compelling. However, the GX-10 opens doors to specialized lenses giving you creative control and superior optical quality.

Build Quality and Durability: Weather Sealing and Ergonomics Compared

Professional and outdoor photographers demand ruggedness.

• Samsung GX-10 features environmental sealing protecting against dust and moisture - crucial for challenging weather and outdoor adventure photography.

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS lacks weather sealing, focusing more on portability and convenience.

The GX-10’s larger, weather-sealed body weighs more but pays dividends if you shoot rigorously outdoors.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

No point having a great camera if it dies mid-shoot.

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS:

  • Battery life rated around 200 shots per charge (typical for compacts)
  • Uses proprietary rechargeable battery (LI-50B)
  • SD/SDHC/SDXC storage, one card slot

• Samsung GX-10:

  • Battery life information sparse but DSLRs generally last longer on a charge (approx. 400+ shots typical for similar models)
  • Uses AA batteries or rechargeable NiMH packs (older tech)
  • Supports SD, MMC cards, one slot

If extended shooting sessions are common for you, the GX-10’s power system is more versatile, especially if you carry spares. The Olympus requires frequent recharging, typical of compacts.

Connectivity and Extras: Wireless, Video, and More

What additional features help you in the modern era?

For vloggers or those capturing casual video, the Olympus clearly leads with Full HD recording, stabilization, and touchscreen controls.

The Samsung’s external flash support lends it towards studio or location lighting flexibility but no video means it’s a pure stills platform.

Photography Genres: Which Camera Excels Where?

Let’s break down real-world usage across popular genres. Data synthesized from hands-on tests and prosumer feedback.

Portrait Photography

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS:

  • Good skin tone rendering due to sensor and processing
  • Face detection AF helpful for beginners
  • Bokeh limited by small sensor and aperture (f/3.0-6.9)

• Samsung GX-10:

  • Superior background separation with APS-C lenses
  • Manual aperture control enables precise depth of field creative control
  • Raw support allows post-processing skin retouching

Runner-up for pro portraits: Olympus offers convenience; Samsung wins on creative flexibility and image quality.

Landscape Photography

• Samsung GX-10 takes a strong lead with larger sensor, better dynamic range, and durability for outdoor conditions. APS-C sensor captures intricate details needed for landscapes.
• Olympus suffers from limited dynamic range and small sensor noise at higher ISOs but offers a vast zoom range for distant scenes.

Wildlife Photography

• The Samsung’s phase-detect AF and lens options (telephotos, fast primes) shine here despite lower burst speed. Manual focus override is handy for precise edge cases.
• The Olympus’s 24x zoom and 7 fps burst offer an advantage for casual wildlife shooters needing reach and speed in a pocketable setup, but AF lag can frustrate.

Sports Photography

• Samsung GX-10 autofocus precision and manual controls suit deliberate shooting, but its 3 fps burst is slow for fast action.
• The Olympus’s 7 fps burst and easy shooting feel make it friendlier for hobbyist sports shooters, yet AF limitations hold it back in low light.

Street Photography

• Olympus excels with discretion, quick zoom, and touchscreen focus.
• Samsung’s bulk and shutter noise may draw attention; manual focus demands higher skill.

Macro Photography

• Olympus allows close focusing (1 cm), good for casual macro.
• Samsung’s macro ability depends on lens choice, but full manual control yields better precision.

Night & Astro Photography

• Samsung’s APS-C sensor outperforms in low light and long exposures, important for astro.
• Olympus limited by small sensor noise and max shutter speed (17 seconds max).

Video Recording

• Olympus supports Full HD at 30 fps with sensor-shift IS, suitable for casual videos and travel vlogs.
• Samsung GX-10 lacks video capability.

Travel Photography

• Olympus’s compact size, zoom range, and video make it excellent for travel snapshots with minimal gear.
• Samsung’s DSLR form and lens weight add bulk but compensate with image quality.

Professional Work

• Samsung’s RAW files, lens options, and manual controls lend themselves better to semi-pro or studio workflows.
• Olympus aimed at enthusiasts and casual users relying on JPEG outputs.

Results Summary: Overall Performance Ratings

An objective look at combined ergonomic, image quality, speed, and feature scores synthesized from experienced testers.

Hands-On Imaging: Sample Photos from Both Cameras

Olympus SZ 31MR iHS front Olympus SZ 31MR iHS screen back Samsung GX 10 front Samsung GX 10 screen back

Pricing and Value: What Your Dollar Buys

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS: Out of production but once affordable, typically the choice for casual users seeking all-in-one convenience.

• Samsung GX-10: Higher initial cost, surplus or used markets only now (~$850 launch price), yet delivers DSLR-grade control and quality.

Neither camera is a current market leader, but both provide compelling learning tools or travel companions depending on your needs.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Pick the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS if…

• You want a lightweight, pocketable camera with an enormous zoom range.
• Video capability is important.
• You prefer auto modes, face detection, and touchscreen operation.
• Your shooting style is casual, travel, street, or family snapshots.

Choose the Samsung GX-10 if…

• You’re an enthusiast ready for manual control, lens swapping, and superior image quality.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, or studio work and need RAW support.
• Build quality and environmental sealing matter to you.
• You want a camera to grow with more advanced accessories and lenses.

Both cameras teach valuable photographic principles and have unique charms. If possible, handle them to get a feel for ergonomics and controls - experience is the best teacher.

Ready to Explore?

Check out local camera shops for floor models or online marketplaces for used options. Consider investing in accessories like extra batteries for the Olympus or lenses for the Samsung to expand your creative possibilities.

Every photographer's journey is unique, and the right camera is the one that inspires you to capture your vision. Keep shooting, keep learning, and let these cameras guide your artistic path.

If you want a deep dive into any specific genre or technical detail, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our extensive camera testing experience is here to support your creative decisions.