Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Sony W800

Here, we will be matching up the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Sony W800, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the W800 (20MP) is relatively similar and both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was launched 24 months earlier than the W800 which makes them a generation apart from one another. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a detailed comparison, here is a short introduction of how the SZ-31MR iHS grades versus the W800 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Sony W800 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you're going to have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS provides outside measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Sony W800 has measurements of 97mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Sony W800 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at the time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the W800.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and W800 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing only by reviewing technical specs. The visual below will help provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-31MR iHS and W800.

As you can tell, both cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Sony W800 to offer more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older SZ-31MR iHS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.