Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung HZ30W

Here, we are evaluating the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Samsung HZ30W, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Samsung. There is a noticeable difference between the resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and HZ30W (12MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was announced 2 years later than the HZ30W and that is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores vs the HZ30W for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Samsung HZ30W. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Samsung HZ30W Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has exterior dimensions 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 Samsung HZ30W has dimensions of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Samsung HZ30W in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you select at the time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the HZ30W.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-31MR iHS and HZ30W is 89 and 91 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at a spec sheet. The visual here should provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-31MR iHS and HZ30W.

Clearly, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size but not the same resolution. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to give greater detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The fresher SZ-31MR iHS will have a benefit in sensor innovation.