Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic ZS30

On this page, we are analyzing the Olympus SH-2 versus Panasonic ZS30, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SH-2 (16MP) and the ZS30 (18MP) is fairly similar and both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The SH-2 was introduced 2 years after the ZS30 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summary of how the SH-2 matches up against the ZS30 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SH-2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SH-2 Gallery and Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-2 comes with outer measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS30 has proportions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SH-2 versus Panasonic ZS30 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that moment. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the SH-2 compared to the ZS30.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SH-2 and ZS30 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its tough to see the difference between sensor sizes just by going over technical specs. The picture here may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-2 and ZS30.

As you can tell, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Panasonic ZS30 to offer more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop images more aggressively. The younger SH-2 will have an edge in sensor technology.