Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9: A Comprehensive Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts

Choosing the right compact camera can be a tricky endeavor, especially when models come from respected brands like Olympus and Sony but cater to slightly different needs and priorities. Today, we'll delve deeply into two intriguing cameras from the early 2010s: the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS, a small sensor superzoom, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9, an ultracompact with a stylish design.

We’ve personally tested thousands of cameras over the years, ripping into their tech, shooting performance, and usability to deliver a thorough comparison based on hands-on experience. Whether you want sharp landscapes, detailed macro shots, or quick street photography in a sleek package, this side-by-side evaluation will help you find the best fit.

Putting Size and Ergonomics to the Test

One of the first things you notice about these two cameras is their physical footprint and how they feel in your hands.

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS: A compact camera body with dimensions of 106 x 69 x 40 mm and weighing 226g.
• Sony DSC-TX9: More slender and lighter at just 98 x 60 x 18 mm, weighing 149g.

The Olympus offers a chunkier, comfortable grip - beneficial for prolonged shooting, especially when zoomed in at the superzoom range. The Sony TX9’s ultra-thin design is exceptionally pocketable and excellent if you need to carry it discreetly or travel light. However, its slimness might reduce tactile control, which could feel less stable during fast action or wildlife shots.

If handheld stability and ergonomics matter to you, the SZ-31MR wins. But if your priority is portability and style, the TX9's sleek design will appeal.

Top-View: Controls, Layout, and Intuitive Use

Top panel layout impacts how quickly you can operate a camera, especially in dynamic shooting situations.

• The Olympus SZ-31MR sports a more traditional camera design, with function buttons and a zoom rocker centered around ergonomic use.
• The Sony TX9 embraces minimalism, with fewer physical buttons but a touchscreen interface for control, streamlining the ultracompact form factor.

In our testing, the Olympus controls are more accommodating for users who want quick access to zoom, flash, and shooting modes without diving into menus. The Sony leans on touch navigation, which might feel intuitive for casual shooters but slower for those who rely on physical toggles during fast-paced shooting.

For photography enthusiasts who prefer manual control or predictable button placement, the SZ-31MR comes out ahead. Meanwhile, the TX9 serves well if you appreciate touch interfaces and sleek designs.

Image Sensor and Quality: The Heart of Your Photos

Despite both cameras sharing the same sensor size - a 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor with dimensions of 6.17 x 4.55 mm - the approach to resolution and image processing varies.

The Olympus packs higher resolution - 16 megapixels versus the TX9's 12. In our testing, this grants Olympus shots finer detail, especially useful for landscape photographers or when cropping is essential. Its max ISO of 6400 provides better low-light latitude, although image noise is still a limiting factor given the small sensor.

Sony's TX9 with 12 megapixels results in slightly larger pixel sizes on the sensor, which can translate to marginally cleaner images, especially in low light up to ISO 3200. Its BSI (Backside Illuminated) sensor technology boosts light capture efficiency, benefiting situations like indoor shooting and night scenes.

For ultimate image detail and higher ISO flexibility, Olympus leads. For cleaner, punchier images in moderate light and better video frame rates, Sony balances well.

Reading the LCD Screen and User Interface

Both cameras sport fixed LCD screens, crucial when you forego optical or electronic viewfinders.

The Sony TX9 offers a slightly bigger screen, enhancing jury-rigged framing and playback clarity. Both offer touch functionality, enabling interactive focus and shooting commands. The SZ-31MR’s screen has a slight edge regarding color accuracy and viewing angles, courtesy of Olympus’s Hypercrystal III technology.

The lack of a viewfinder on both models means relying heavily on the back screen in bright conditions, where legibility can suffer. Neither camera addresses this with a built-in EVF.

Generally, the TX9’s screen size benefits photographers who prioritize composition comfort, while the Olympus’s display tech edges out in image preview fidelity.

Zoom and Lens Versatility: How Far Can You Go?

The Olympus SZ-31MR excels with a superzoom range of 25-600mm equivalent (24x optical zoom). The lens aperture shifts from f/3.0 wide open to f/6.9 at full telephoto.

The Sony TX9 sacrifices zoom range for compactness, with a 25-100mm equivalent (4x optical zoom) range and a max aperture from f/3.5 to f/4.6.

What does this mean for you?

• Olympus SZ-31MR: Ideal if you crave versatile focal length options from wide to supertelephoto. It suits wildlife, sports, and travel where you might not want to swap lenses or carry multiple cameras.
• Sony TX9: Better for everyday street, travel, or casual snapshots where max reach isn’t paramount, but discretion and portability are.

While the Olympus zoom covers a vast distance, the maximum aperture shrinks significantly at the long end, which can impact low-light telephoto shots. The TX9 maintains somewhat faster apertures in its shorter zoom range, aiding in indoor or shaded environments.

Performance with Autofocus and Burst Shooting

Autofocus (AF) and continuous shooting speeds are pivotal for capturing fast-moving subjects.

In real-world encounters, the Sony TX9’s 9-point AF array lets you select focus zones with finger taps on the screen, delivering slightly faster overall focus acquisition. Its 10 fps burst rate is one of the highest in its class, enabling better chances to catch peak action.

The Olympus SZ-31MR’s face detection autofocus smoothly tracks faces but is generally slower focusing on non-face subjects, especially at maximum zoom. It maxes out at 7 fps burst, suitable for moderate motion but less ideal for high-speed sports or wildlife action.

Therefore:

• Choose Sony TX9 if speed and quick focus are your priorities (street, sports).
• Lean toward Olympus if zoom versatility outweighs needing lightning-fast AF.

Exploring Different Photography Genres

Whether you shoot portraits, landscapes, or macro, your camera should cater to your style. Here’s how these two stack up across common genres.

Portrait Photography

• Skin tones & bokeh: Olympus’s longer zoom plus its effective sensor resolution gives better subject isolation and softer backgrounds at telephoto focal lengths - valuable for flattering portraits.
• Eye detection: Although Olympus offers face detection autofocus, neither camera supports advanced eye detection or animal eye AF common in modern devices.
• Exposure control: Neither provides manual aperture/shutter controls limiting creative depth-of-field control.

Winner: While neither is specifically portrait-focused, Olympus’s zoom and skin tone reproduction make it better suited for casual portraiture.

Landscape Photography

• Dynamic range: With similar sensors and limited ISO options, both cameras face constraints capturing high dynamic range scenes.
• Resolution: Olympus’s 16 MP sensor yields marginally richer detail.
• Weather sealing: Both lack any environmental protection; neither ideal for adventurers but fine for urban or controlled landscapes.

Winner: Olympus for resolution but consider a more weather-sealed camera for serious outdoor landscapes.

Wildlife Photography

• Telephoto reach: Olympus dominates with 600mm equivalent.
• AF speed & accuracy: Sony’s faster AF is an asset but limited telephoto range restricts reach.
• Burst shooting: Sony’s 10fps vs Olympus’s 7fps helps track fleeting animal motion.

Winner: Olympus for reach; Sony for speed, so Olympus appeals if you need zoom, Sony if you favor responsiveness.

Sports Photography

• Tracking accuracy: Both limited by contrast detect AF and lack of pro-level focus modes.
• Frame rates: Sony edges with 10 fps.
• Low light: Olympus’s higher max ISO benefits indoor sports but image quality degrades due to sensor size.

Winner: Sony TX9 for frame rate, Olympus for reach and ISO.

Street Photography

• Discretion & portability: Sony’s ultra-slim build is more discreet and pocketable.
• Low light handling: Sony’s sensor design fares well for street scenes in varying light.
• AF responsiveness: Sony’s focus system and screen size assist.

Winner: Sony TX9 for street shooters.

Macro Photography

• Macro focus range: Both cameras support close focusing to 1 cm.
• Focusing precision: Sony’s manual focus option enables more precise setups.
• Stabilization: Olympus’s sensor-shift IS can help handheld macro shots.

Winner: Olympus for stabilization, Sony for manual focus.

Night / Astro Photography

• High ISO performance: Olympus supports ISO up to 6400, Sony maxes at 3200.
• Exposure modes: Both lack manual exposure, hindering long-exposure astrophotography.
• Noise levels: Both struggle with noise beyond ISO 800 due to sensor size.

Winner: Neither great; Olympus’s higher ISO ceiling may offer slight advantages.

Video Capabilities

Sony’s higher frame rate 1080p video with efficient AVCHD compression makes it better for smooth motion recording. Both lack external mic inputs limiting audio quality upgrades.

For casual vloggers, Sony’s video edge is noticeable. Olympus video is serviceable but lagging.

Travel Photography

Size, battery life, versatility, and weight dominate here.

Olympus has the edge in zoom versatility but is heavier and bulkier. Sony excels in portability but sacrifices zoom reach.

Professional Workflows

Neither camera supports RAW image capture, limiting post-processing control critical for professional photographers. Also missing are advanced manual exposure modes and professional-grade lens systems. Connectivity, file formats, and durability miss higher-end standards.

These models are better positioned towards enthusiast or casual use rather than demanding professional workflows.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing

Both cameras lack environmental sealing or ruggedized features. Neither is splash-proof, dustproof, shockproof, or freeze-proof.

If outdoor or harsh conditions shooting is in your plans, consider weather-sealed alternatives.

Battery Life and Storage Options

• Olympus SZ-31MR iHS: Powers up to 200 shots per charge on a proprietary Lithium Ion battery (LI-50B).
• Sony TX9: Battery life not officially specified but powered by NP-BN1 battery, known for compact size but limited capacity.

Storage for both supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Sony additionally supports Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo formats common in Sony gear.

Connectivity and Extras

Both cameras feature HDMI and USB 2.0 ports. Wireless connectivity includes Eye-Fi card compatibility but no built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS modules.

No external microphone or headphone jacks exist, limiting audio flexibility.

Putting It All Together: Side-by-side Feature Summary

Sample Shots: Real-World Results

Olympus SZ 31MR iHS front Olympus SZ 31MR iHS screen back Sony TX9 screen back

From our test gallery, Olympus’s high-resolution sensor delivers sharper details in daylight landscapes and telephoto wildlife shots. Sony’s images shine in indoor and street settings with cleaner noise profiles and vibrant colors. Video footage from Sony reveals smoother motion due to higher frame rates.

How the Cameras Score Overall and by Photography Genre

The Olympus SZ-31MR scores better for zoom versatility and image detail, while Sony TX9 ranks higher for speed, portability, and video. Portrait and wildlife shooters may lean Olympus; street photographers, casual users, and vloggers may prefer Sony.

Who Should Buy the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS?

• You want a superzoom camera for wildlife, travel, and general photography.
• You prioritize image resolution and detail for cropping or printing.
• You value image stabilization for handheld telephoto shots.
• You prefer physical controls and more traditional camera ergonomics.

This camera is best for enthusiasts looking for an affordable compact with versatile reach and decent image quality.

Who Should Choose the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9?

• You want an ultracompact, stylish camera with excellent portability.
• You value fast autofocus and high frame rate continuous shooting for quick moments.
• You shoot video regularly and want smoother 1080p 50fps capture.
• You prioritize a larger touchscreen with intuitive operation.
• You want a camera for street and casual travel photography.

Suitable for travelers and street photographers who want a pocket-sized powerhouse with solid image quality and usability.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Features and Use Cases

Both the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9 represent capable compact cameras but with distinct strengths.

• Olympus focuses on zoom range and resolution, best for those needing reach and detail.
• Sony excels in portability, autofocus speed, and video performance, ideal for social, street, and travel shooters.

Neither camera suits professionals requiring RAW support, manual exposure controls, or rugged build. However, they both offer solid features for enthusiasts and casual creators eager to improve their photography without learning curves or bulk.

Before buying, we recommend hands-on testing to feel ergonomics and image rendition differences personally. Also consider your shooting priorities: is it zoom, speed, portability, or video? Your answers will guide you to the perfect match.

Explore Further

To complement your new camera:

• Look into quality tripods or stabilizing accessories, especially for telephoto and macro.
• Check out fast, high-capacity SD cards for video and burst shooting.
• Experiment with in-camera white balance and exposure compensation settings to match personal style.
• Practice shooting in different lighting to master each camera’s strengths.

Both Olympus and Sony support a variety of helpful tutorials and community forums to grow your photography journey - worth exploring.

We hope this detailed comparison helps you confidently select your next compact camera and inspires lots of creative shoots ahead! Happy snapping!