Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Sony WX500

In this write-up, we are comparing the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Sony WX500, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the WX500 (18MP) is very well matched and they enjoy the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was revealed 4 years earlier than the WX500 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple overview of how the SZ-31MR iHS scores against the WX500 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Sony WX500 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera frequently, you need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony WX500 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") having a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Sony WX500 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS and the WX500.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and WX500 is 89 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to envision the gap between sensor sizing only by checking technical specs. The graphic underneath might provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-31MR iHS and WX500.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You can expect to see the Sony WX500 to resolve extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images a little more aggressively. The older SZ-31MR iHS is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.