Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Samsung HZ35W

In this article, we are evaluating the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Samsung HZ35W, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Olympus and Samsung. There is a large difference among the sensor resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and HZ35W (12MP) but they possess the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was announced 21 months after the HZ35W making the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a brief summary of how the SZ-31MR iHS grades against the HZ35W when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Samsung HZ35W. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Samsung HZ35W Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS enjoys physical dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Samsung HZ35W has sizing of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Samsung HZ35W in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that moment. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the HZ35W.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-31MR iHS and HZ35W is 89 and 91 respectively.

Often, its tough to picture the difference in sensor sizes purely by researching technical specs. The picture below may provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-31MR iHS and HZ35W.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to render extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images far more aggressively. The more recent SZ-31MR iHS provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.