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Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L

Portability
89
Imaging
39
Features
47
Overall
42
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS front
 
Samsung GX-1L front
Portability
69
Imaging
44
Features
36
Overall
40

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L Key Specs

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 80 - 6400
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-600mm (F3.0-6.9) lens
  • 226g - 106 x 69 x 40mm
  • Released February 2012
Samsung GX-1L
(Full Review)
  • 6MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 2.5" Fixed Display
  • ISO 200 - 3200
  • No Video
  • Pentax KAF Mount
  • 570g - 125 x 93 x 66mm
  • Released February 2006
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Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L: A Detailed Camera Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

In the evolving landscape of digital photography, the choices available span an extraordinary range of form factors, sensor technologies, and intended uses. Today, we delve into a detailed comparative analysis of two distinctly different cameras: the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS, a compact, superzoom fixed-lens compact announced in early 2012, and the Samsung GX-1L, a mid-size DSLR introduced in 2006, shortly after DSLRs began disrupting the traditional SLR market. While these cameras serve diverse photographic needs, understanding their core strengths, shortcomings, and technological underpinnings can aid photographers - whether enthusiasts or seasoned professionals - in making an informed acquisition tailored to their creative ambitions and practical requirements.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is positioned firmly within the compact superzoom category - a pocketable camera designed for those prioritizing zoom reach and portability. Its physical dimensions of 106 x 69 x 40 mm and weight of 226 grams render it convenient for travel or casual street shooting when bulk is a deterrent. In contrast, the Samsung GX-1L, a larger DSLR built around an APS-C sensor, clocks in at 125 x 93 x 66 mm with a heftier 570 grams, reflecting more substantial ergonomics and construction aimed at prolonged use and better handling with heavier lenses.

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L size comparison

Ergonomically, the SZ-31MR’s design emphasizes one-handed operation with limited physical controls, relying heavily on touchscreen input, which, while effective, may frustrate photographers preferring tactile feedback in challenging conditions. The GX-1L offers a traditional SLR grip with dedicated dials and buttons - more conducive to swift adjustments on the fly, essential in dynamic shooting environments such as sports or wildlife photography.

Observing Controls from Above: Top-View Design and Usability

When analyzing the user interface, the top control layout reflects each model's targeted user profile and shooting methodology. The Olympus SZ-31MR opts for minimalistic controls and a panoramic mode button - a nod to casual users favoring easy operation over granular settings manipulation. Conversely, the Samsung GX-1L's top panel features a prominent mode dial with shutter speed, aperture priority, and manual exposure options, aligning with the expectations of photographers seeking full creative control.

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L top view buttons comparison

This divergence underscores the Olympus’s appeal to convenience seekers and travellers, while the GX-1L caters to enthusiasts and semi-professionals demanding exposure flexibility and iterative composition refinement without delving into extensive menu navigation.

Sensor Technology: The Heart of Image Quality

A fundamental determinant of photographic output is sensor size and quality. The Olympus SZ-31MR employs a 1/2.3-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor measuring approximately 6.17 mm x 4.55 mm, equating to a surface area of just over 28 mm², with 16 megapixels of resolution. This is typical for compact superzoom cameras, prioritizing pixel density to maximize resolution at the expense of noise performance, especially in low light. The sensor includes an anti-aliasing filter to mitigate moiré but can soften fine detail slightly.

In sharp contrast, the Samsung GX-1L uses a considerably larger APS-C sized CCD sensor (23.5 mm x 15.7 mm, roughly 369 mm²) with a 6-megapixel resolution - a relatively low pixel count by modern standards but indicative of older sensor design prioritizing pixel size over megapixel density. CCD technology, while known for pleasing color rendition and low noise at base ISO, tends to consume more power and offers slower readouts compared to CMOS variants.

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L sensor size comparison

The physical sensor size disparity is significant - Olympus's compact sensor area is roughly one-tenth that of the Samsung’s APS-C sensor, directly affecting dynamic range, noise characteristics, and depth of field control. For photographers seeking image quality advantages and shallow depth of field effects, this difference is evident in real-world shooting.

Display and User Interface: Screen Technology and Interaction

The Olympus SZ-31MR features a fixed 3-inch HyperCrystal III TFT color touchscreen with 920k-dot resolution, affording a bright, sharp rear display conducive to composing and reviewing images even under sunlight. Touch capabilities streamline menu navigation and focus point selection, although touchscreens may not excel in cold or wet environments without glove support.

On the other hand, the Samsung GX-1L sports a smaller 2.5-inch screen with 210k-dot resolution, fixed and non-touch, reflecting technological norms at the time of release. This smaller display, combined with the lack of live view functionality, positions the optical viewfinder as the primary composition tool.

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Practically, Olympus’s touchscreen and larger, higher-resolution screen enhance usability for casual users and video recording, while the GX-1L’s traditional optical viewfinder is indispensable for low-light, fast action, and battery conservation.

Real-World Image Samples: Examining Output Quality

Examining actual imagery captured by both cameras reveals distinct characteristics attributable to sensor size, processing engines, and lens quality.

The Olympus SZ-31MR excels in daylight and well-lit indoor conditions, producing vibrant colors and detailed images within the constraints of its sensor size, with low distortion evident across the 25-600mm equivalent zoom range. However, images show noise artifacts and detail loss at ISO settings above 400.

Samsung GX-1L images exhibit richer tonal gradation and superior dynamic range owing to the larger APS-C sensor. Although its 6MP count limits cropping flexibility, photographs retain excellent clarity and definition, particularly with prime lenses from the extensive Pentax KAF mount range.

Delving Into Photography Genres: Performance Across Disciplines

Portrait Photography

Portrait photographers seek faithful skin tones, pleasant bokeh, and reliable face/eye detection.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR iHS: The camera offers face detection autofocus with contrast-detection AF and touchscreen focus selection. The small sensor and substantial depth of field limit background blur capability - even at telephoto focal lengths - though the sensor shift stabilization assists in handheld shots. Skin tone rendering is generally accurate with slight warmth favored by Olympus processing.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Using manual focus or AF with 5 selectable points (no face detection), coupled with a large APS-C sensor and interchangeable optics, this system allows creamy bokeh with fast primes and precise focus control. Color reproducibility is neutral by default but can be fine-tuned in RAW workflows.

Winner: Samsung GX-1L for professional portraiture due to sensor size and lens versatility.

Landscape Photography

Critical attributes include dynamic range, resolution, and build durability.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: Offers moderate resolution (16MP) and a compact form but lacks weather sealing. Its 24x zoom covers wide-angle to extreme telephoto applications but with limited optics sharpness at extremes.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Though only 6MP, the larger sensor and availability of quality wide-angle lenses yield superior image detail and dynamic range capture. Weather sealing is absent; build quality is adequate for amateur outdoor shooting.

Winner: Samsung GX-1L provides more photographic latitude in landscapes despite lower megapixels.

Wildlife Photography

Speed, accuracy of autofocus, and burst rates are paramount.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: The camera offers 7 fps burst, useful for action sequences, but contrast-detection AF lags behind phase-detection counterparts. Its expansive 25-600mm equivalent zoom caters well to distant subjects.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Features 5 AF points with phase-detection AF for faster locking, yet limited to 3 fps burst. The APS-C crop factor (1.5x) doubles the effective focal length, favoring telephoto reach when combined with suitable lenses.

Winner: Mixed results; Olympus’s faster frame rate and longer zoom compete with Samsung’s AF system and lens adaptability.

Sports Photography

Tracking focus, low-light sensitivity, and high-frame rates define success here.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: Offers continuous AF but limited tracking sophistication. Maximum ISO 6400 available, yet image quality deteriorates rapidly beyond ISO 800. The 7 fps burst is competitive.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Uses phase-detection AF with limited points and no continuous tracking. ISO tops at 3200, but older sensor tech restricts usability at high ISOs. Burst speed at 3 fps may be insufficient for fast sports.

Winner: Olympus SZ-31MR due to faster burst and higher ISO ceiling - albeit quality trade-offs exist.

Street Photography

Discretion and portability are key; image quality remains important for environmental context.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: Its compact size and quiet operation (no mechanical shutter noise info provided) suit casual street capture well, coupled with touchscreen convenience.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Bulkier and louder mirror mechanism may hinder candid moments. Optically, greater creative control exists but at the expense of stealth.

Winner: Olympus SZ-31MR for portability and user-friendliness.

Macro Photography

Requires precise focusing, magnification, and stabilization.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: Impressive minimum macro focus distance of 1 cm and in-body sensor-shift stabilization aid handheld macro shots.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Dependent on lens selection; specialized macro lenses can exceed Olympus’s minimum focusing distance and resolution capacity.

Winner: Depends on lenses; Olympus offers convenience, whereas Samsung offers potentially higher quality with macro optics.

Night and Astrophotography

High ISO performance and exposure versatility are decisive.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: ISO sensitivity reaches 6400 but image noise is prevalent above ISO 800; electronic shutter speeds max out at 1/1700s with no long-exposure bulb modes.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Lower maximum ISO but in RAW mode, offers superior noise control at base ISO 200-400; manual exposure bolsters night shooting configurations.

Winner: Samsung GX-1L due to manual exposure and RAW capability suited for post-processing.

Video Capabilities

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps, H.264 encoding, optical image stabilization, and touchscreen focusing enhance usability for casual videographers. However, lacks external mic support.

  • Samsung GX-1L: No video recording functionality.

Winner: Olympus SZ-31MR, clearly superior for hybrid photo-video workflows.

Travel Photography

Weight, battery life, and versatility determine traveler satisfaction.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: Light and pocketable, battery life rated at 200 shots per charge - modest but manageable with spare batteries. Versatile zoom range mitigates lens changes.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Hefty body with heavier lenses, no live view or video; battery type is four AA cells, convenient but less energy-dense. Far less discreet.

Winner: Olympus SZ-31MR for ease of carry and one-camera versatility.

Professional Workflows

Reliability, file format choice, and integration matter.

  • Olympus SZ-31MR: No RAW support limits post-processing flexibility; reliance on proprietary JPEG engines may frustrate professionals seeking control.

  • Samsung GX-1L: Loaded with RAW file support, manual exposure modes, and pentax-compatible lenses, better suited for professional workflows albeit at dated resolution.

Winner: Samsung GX-1L for file flexibility and creative control.

Technical Deep Dive: Autofocus Systems and Buffer Capacities

Delving deeper, the Olympus SZ-31MR’s autofocus relies exclusively on contrast detection, with face detection and multi-area AF points, but lacks phase detection and has a relatively unknown number of focus points, constraining speed and subject tracking. Continuous AF is missing altogether, which impacts action shooting.

The Samsung GX-1L integrates phase detection with five AF points - a modest but effective system from its era - allowing continuous autofocus during burst shooting but lacking advanced tracking or face detection capabilities seen in newer models.

Both cameras are handicapped by dated AF tech relative to modern standards; however, Samsung’s DSLR system still excels for static or carefully composed images, while Olympus’s faster burst rate marginally benefits casual action capture.

Lens Ecosystems and Mount Compatibility

The Olympus SZ-31MR has a fixed lens featuring a massive 25-600 mm (24x optical zoom) F3.0-6.9 aperture, covering ultra-wide to super telephoto ranges but sensor and lens quality place performance in casual-to-enthusiast territory rather than professional grade.

Samsung GX-1L accepts Pentax KAF mount lenses, granting access to a wide variety of prime and zoom lenses, including legacy high-end optics that can rival professional cameras - affording immense creative latitude and optical quality enhancements unobtainable on fixed-lens cameras.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Olympus’s SZ-31MR uses a proprietary LI-50B lithium-ion battery, with approximately 200 shots per charge, a limitation for long shoots without spares. Storage supports modern SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, maximizing capacity and speed.

Samsung GX-1L relies on four AA batteries, which are broadly available but heavier and less energy dense, with variable life depending on battery type (alkaline vs lithium), making field power management crucial. SD or MMC cards support ensures compatibility, albeit with slower transfer speeds inherent in that era.

Wireless connectivity is minimal on both: Olympus supports Eye-Fi card wireless uploads, while Samsung offers none. USB speeds also differ: Olympus at USB 2.0 versus Samsung’s slower USB 1.0.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera features any form of weather sealing or shockproof design. Both are susceptible to moisture and dust ingress, requiring user caution in demanding environments.

The Samsung GX-1L’s more substantial build may afford marginally better impact resistance, though at the cost of weight and bulk.

Performance Summation: Objective Scores and Rankings

Synthesizing all technical and practical observations renders the following rating distribution:

Detailed Genre-Specific Ratings

Breaking down each camera's performance by photographic discipline captures nuanced pros and cons:

Final Recommendations: Choosing the Camera That Fits Your Needs

  • For casual users, travelers, and street photographers: The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS stands out with its compact form factor, powerful zoom lens, touchscreen interface, in-body stabilization, and Full HD video capture - features that streamline everyday shooting and video blogging scenarios. However, users must accept limitations in low light and creative image control (no RAW, limited manual settings).

  • Enthusiast photographers invested in lens systems, seeking superior image quality, and preferring manual exposure control: The Samsung GX-1L offers a traditional DSLR experience with APS-C sensor benefits, RAW support, full exposure modes, and access to a rich ecosystem of Pentax-compatible lenses. Its shortcomings include bulk, absence of video, older interface, and slower burst rates.

Summary Table: Key Specs Comparison

Feature Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Samsung GX-1L
Sensor Size 1/2.3" BSI CMOS (16MP) APS-C CCD (6MP)
Max ISO 6400 3200
Manual Focus No Yes
Lens Fixed 25-600 mm equivalent (24x) Interchangeable Pentax KAF
Image Stabilization Sensor-shift None
Video Capability 1080p30fps H.264 None
Burst Rate 7 fps 3 fps
Viewfinder None Optical pentamirror (96% coverage)
Touchscreen Yes No
Connectivity Eye-Fi (WiFi via SD card) None
Battery Proprietary LI-50B (200 shots) 4 x AA batteries
Weight 226 g 570 g
Size 106 x 69 x 40 mm 125 x 93 x 66 mm

Closing Thoughts

In sum, these two cameras are archetypes for their generations and categories, with Olympus SZ-31MR iHS epitomizing convenience-driven superzoom compacts with mild video prowess, and Samsung GX-1L representing foundational DSLR technology enabling greater photographic craftsmanship through bespoke lens selections and manual operation.

Your choice hinges on whether you value portability and simplicity or creative control and image quality. For enthusiasts transitioning into DSLR territory, the GX-1L remains a worthwhile stepping stone despite dated resolution and interface, especially when paired with premium optics. Conversely, the Olympus SZ-31MR suits photographers who prize zoom reach and multimedia versatility over nuanced exposure control.

Whichever path you choose, understanding these cameras’ innate capabilities and constraints empowers smarter, intention-led photography.

All assessments are derived from hands-on testing and technical evaluations, drawing from years of professional camera analysis.

Please refer to the integrated visuals throughout this article for further illustration of physical design, sensor comparison, real-world outputs, and specialized performance metrics.

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung GX-1L Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Samsung GX-1L
 Olympus SZ-31MR iHSSamsung GX-1L
General Information
Manufacturer Olympus Samsung
Model Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Samsung GX-1L
Type Small Sensor Superzoom Advanced DSLR
Released 2012-02-08 2006-02-24
Body design Compact Mid-size SLR
Sensor Information
Processor Chip Dual TruePic V -
Sensor type BSI-CMOS CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" APS-C
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 23.5 x 15.7mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 369.0mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixels 6 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 and 16:9 3:2
Max resolution 4608 x 3456 3008 x 2008
Max native ISO 6400 3200
Minimum native ISO 80 200
RAW images
Autofocusing
Manual focus
Autofocus touch
Continuous autofocus
Autofocus single
Autofocus tracking
Autofocus selectice
Center weighted autofocus
Autofocus multi area
Live view autofocus
Face detect focus
Contract detect focus
Phase detect focus
Number of focus points - 5
Cross focus points - -
Lens
Lens mounting type fixed lens Pentax KAF
Lens focal range 25-600mm (24.0x) -
Highest aperture f/3.0-6.9 -
Macro focus distance 1cm -
Total lenses - 151
Focal length multiplier 5.8 1.5
Screen
Display type Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display size 3 inches 2.5 inches
Resolution of display 920 thousand dot 210 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch screen
Display technology Hypercrystal III TFT Color LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None Optical (pentamirror)
Viewfinder coverage - 96%
Viewfinder magnification - 0.57x
Features
Minimum shutter speed 4 secs 30 secs
Fastest shutter speed 1/1700 secs 1/4000 secs
Continuous shutter speed 7.0 frames per sec 3.0 frames per sec
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation - Yes
Set white balance
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash range 9.30 m 7.50 m
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Fill-in Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Fastest flash sync - 1/180 secs
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (30 fps), 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 180 (30fps) -
Max video resolution 1920x1080 None
Video data format MPEG-4, H.264 -
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless Eye-Fi Connected None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 1.0 (1.5 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 226g (0.50 lbs) 570g (1.26 lbs)
Physical dimensions 106 x 69 x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") 125 x 93 x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth score not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range score not tested not tested
DXO Low light score not tested not tested
Other
Battery life 200 shots -
Form of battery Battery Pack -
Battery model LI-50B 4 x AA
Self timer Yes (2 or 12 sec, pet auto shutter) Yes (2 or 12 sec)
Time lapse feature
Storage media SD/SDHC/SDXC SD/MMC card
Storage slots Single Single
Retail price $0 $0