Olympus VR-330 vs Samsung ST80

In this article, we are reviewing the Olympus VR-330 and Samsung ST80, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Samsung. The resolution of the VR-330 (14MP) and the ST80 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The VR-330 was released 14 months later than the ST80 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus VR-330 being a Compact camera and the Samsung ST80 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the VR-330 grades against the ST80 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus VR-330 & Samsung ST80. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus VR-330 Gallery & Samsung ST80 Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera often, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-330 comes with exterior measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Samsung ST80 has measurements of 92mm x 55mm x 19mm (3.6" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 118 grams (0.26 lbs).

Compare the Olympus VR-330 and Samsung ST80 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the VR-330 against the ST80.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the VR-330 and ST80 is 94 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to picture the gap in sensor measurements only by seeing technical specs. The graphic below will give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the VR-330 and ST80.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact resolution therefore you can expect comparable quality of images though you should take the age of the cameras into account. The more modern VR-330 should have an advantage in sensor tech.