Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Zeiss ZX1

Below, we are evaluating the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Zeiss ZX1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Zeiss. There is a substantial difference between the image resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the SZ-31MR iHS (1/2.3") and ZX1 (Full frame) enjoy different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-31MR iHS was introduced 7 years before the ZX1 which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up vs the ZX1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Zeiss ZX1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS enjoys external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Zeiss ZX1 has measurements of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Zeiss ZX1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS against the ZX1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZX1 is 89 and 67 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizes purely by going over a spec sheet. The picture underneath might give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZX1.

As you can see, both of these cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The SZ-31MR iHS using its tinier sensor is going to make getting bokeh more difficult and the Zeiss ZX1 will deliver greater detail using its extra 21MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SZ-31MR iHS is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.