Name: Olympus SZ-30MR
Brand: Olympus

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Best prices in UK

N/A~ £310

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Verdict

The Olympus SZ-30MR is a compact super-zoom camera featuring a 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and a powerful 24x optical zoom lens with a 25-600mm equivalent focal length. Its standout characteristic is 'Multi Recording' (MR) technology, enabled by dual TruePic III+ image processors, which allows for the simultaneous capture of 1080p Full HD video and full-resolution stills, or even two different video formats at once. Main pros include its remarkable miniaturisation for such a long zoom range, fast burst shooting speeds of up to 9 fps at full resolution, and a dedicated 3cm super macro mode. However, notable cons include overaggressive noise suppression that can blur fine details, a lack of manual exposure controls, and relatively short battery life rated at approximately 220 shots.

Technical Specifications of Olympus SZ-30MR

Overall score

4.6

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Sensor & Image

5.0

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Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). A higher resolution can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

Base ISO

What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.

When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

Max ISO

What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

Photo Features

5.2

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Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.

When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Built-in focus motor

What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.

When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

N. of focus points

What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.

When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

N/A

Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.

When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

AF tracking

What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.

When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

Video & Audio

3.8

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Max video resolution

What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.

When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

Video bit depth

What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.

When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

Video chroma subsampling

What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.

When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264

Display & Design

5.3

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Type

What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.

When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact

Weight

What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.

When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

Width

What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.

When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.

When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

Battery & Power

3.3

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Battery life (CIPA)

What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.

When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

Removable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the camera battery can be removed and replaced by the user.

When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly during a long shoot or replace an aging battery.

Importance: LOW

USB Power Delivery (PD)

What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.

When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity & Storage

2.8

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.

When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.

When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.

When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

Olympus SZ-30MR vs the average camera

Why is Olympus SZ-30MR better than the average camera?

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In-body stabilization
Olympus SZ-30MR supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
What it is: A stabilization system that physically moves the image sensor to reduce shake during handheld shooting.
When it matters: When you often shoot handheld and want sharper results at slower shutter speeds without relying only on lens stabilization.
Importance: MEDIUM
Olympus SZ-30MR supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Uses a BSI sensor
Olympus SZ-30MR uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-30MR uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
42.8% lighter
Olympus SZ-30MR is lighter than the average camera (226 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: 500 g or less
Olympus SZ-30MR is lighter than the average camera (226 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.226 g vs 395 g
0.06 GB more storage
Olympus SZ-30MR has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.
What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-30MR has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.059 GB vs 0 GB
13.9 mm narrower
Olympus SZ-30MR is narrower than the average camera (106 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-30MR is narrower than the average camera (106 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.106 mm vs 119.9 mm
42.8% lighter
Olympus SZ-30MR is lighter than the average camera (226 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
13.9 mm narrower
Olympus SZ-30MR is narrower than the average camera (106 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
Uses a BSI sensor
Olympus SZ-30MR uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
In-body stabilization
Olympus SZ-30MR supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
0.06 GB more storage
Olympus SZ-30MR has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.

Connectivity & Storage

Why is Olympus SZ-30MR worse than the average camera?

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No hot shoe
Olympus SZ-30MR does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
Smaller sensor
Olympus SZ-30MR has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
2 µm smaller sensor pixels
Olympus SZ-30MR has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.
Lacks HDR mode
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
0.2 MP lower sensor resolution
Olympus SZ-30MR has a lower sensor resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a sensor resolution of 16.2 MP.
3,200 ISO lower maximum sensitivity limit
Olympus SZ-30MR has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 ISO vs 6,400 ISO). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400 ISO.
2 older
Olympus SZ-30MR is older than the average camera (2011 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
4 fps slower mechanical burst
Olympus SZ-30MR has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.7 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
No RAW photo capture
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
No manual focus mode
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
No manual exposure control
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
No true manual exposure mode.
26 s shorter maximum exposure
Olympus SZ-30MR supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (4 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
14 Mbps lower video bitrate
Olympus SZ-30MR has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (16 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
110 shots fewer shots per charge
Olympus SZ-30MR has shorter battery life than the average camera (220 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
195 mAh smaller battery capacity
Olympus SZ-30MR has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (925 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
Older HDMI version
Olympus SZ-30MR uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
Smaller sensor
Olympus SZ-30MR has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: Full frame or larger
Olympus SZ-30MR has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
2 µm smaller sensor pixels
Olympus SZ-30MR has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 3.5 µm
Olympus SZ-30MR has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.1.34 µm vs 3.34 µm
4 fps slower mechanical burst
Olympus SZ-30MR has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.7 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 10 fps
Olympus SZ-30MR has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.7 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.1.7 fps vs 5.7 fps
Lacks HDR mode
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
No hot shoe
Olympus SZ-30MR does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-30MR does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
No RAW photo capture
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-30MR does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
110 shots fewer shots per charge
Olympus SZ-30MR has shorter battery life than the average camera (220 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 400 shots
Olympus SZ-30MR has shorter battery life than the average camera (220 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.220 shots vs 330 shots
0.2 MP lower sensor resolution
Olympus SZ-30MR has a lower sensor resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a sensor resolution of 16.2 MP.
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). A higher resolution can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 20 MP
Olympus SZ-30MR has a lower sensor resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a sensor resolution of 16.2 MP.16 MP vs 16.2 MP

Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Olympus SZ-30MR and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Olympus SZ-30MR?

Excellent 24x optical zoom range in a compact, lightweight body.
Ability to record video in Full HD 1080p and take photographs simultaneously thanks to its Multi-Recording function.
Fast continuous shooting mode up to 15 fps in reduced resolution.
Good grip and ergonomic and portable design.
Easy-to-use Smart Panorama mode with no apparent distortion at the zoom extremes.

What customers dislike about Olympus SZ-30MR?

The noise reduction is very aggressive, causing fine details (such as leaves or faces) to appear blurry.
Bright colors can become dazzling or saturated ('blooming') under intense direct light.
The overall image quality is perceived as average and does not take full advantage of the 16 megapixels.
Few manual controls available and too many menus to navigate.

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

28/06/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR Super Zoom Review | ePHOTOzine

The ePHOTOzine review of the Olympus SZ-30MR highlights a pocket-sized camera featuring a 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and a 24x optical zoom lens (25-600mm). Key advantages identified include the innovative Multi-Recording (MR) mode for simultaneous 1080p video and 16MP stills, effective 3cm super macro, and a 9fps continuous shooting mode. The review notes, however, that images can appear washed out or blurry at the maximum 24x zoom range, necessitating a steady hand or tripod. Additionally, the camera's zoom motor is noisy, which can negatively affect audio during video recording.

trustedreviews.com

22/06/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR review - Trusted Reviews

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Olympus SZ-30MR highlights a compact travel camera featuring a versatile 24x optical zoom, effective "super macro" mode, and a useful Multi Recording (MR) mode for capturing multiple formats simultaneously. Solid build quality, including a sturdy handgrip and top-plate mode dial, makes it a reliable performer in everyday scenarios. However, the camera is hampered by a bulky, angular design and a loose rear control wheel that is easy to accidentally adjust. Key drawbacks also include inconsistent exposure and metering, alongside a 3-inch LCD screen that struggles significantly with visibility and accuracy in bright lighting conditions.

pocket-lint.com

16/04/2013

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR - Pocket-lint

Based on the provided review, we assume you are seeking a detailed breakdown of the camera's practical performance and design trade-offs to evaluate its suitability as a casual travel companion. The Olympus SZ-30MR is a highly portable point-and-shoot camera that stands out for squeezing a massive 24x optical zoom lens (25–600mm equivalent) into a compact, pocket-friendly plastic body. Its main strengths lie in its simple operation, featuring an effective "iAuto" mode that delivers great results for casual holiday snapshots without requiring manual adjustments. Additionally, it offers excellent Full HD video quality with an instant capture button and continuous autofocus, alongside unique sequential shooting speeds of up to 7fps at full resolution. The camera's physical design also includes a prominent handgrip to help counteract hand tremors when shooting at long focal lengths. However, the camera suffers from several distinct drawbacks, particularly regarding build quality, battery life, and high-end photographic controls. The plastic exterior feels slightly hollow and cheap, while the prominent top mode dial is easily knocked out of place by accident. Serious photographers may be disappointed by the total lack...

digital-photography-school.com

22/08/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR REVIEW - Digital Photography School

The Olympus SZ-30MR is a compact superzoom digital camera reviewed by Barrie Smith on Digital Photography School. Built around a 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor, its standout feature is a massive 24x optical zoom range (equivalent to 25-600mm) packed into a highly portable body. The camera excels in performance flexibility, offering a blazing-fast burst mode capable of hitting up to 15 frames per second. It also introduces an innovative "Multi Recording" (MR) feature that allows users to seamlessly record Full 1080p HD video while simultaneously capturing full-size still photos. Reviewers note that the camera delivers a distortion-free performance across both ends of the zoom range and features fun creative additions like 3D capture, sweep panoramas, and eight built-in Magic Filters. Digital Photography School However, the camera does suffer from some distinct limitations. While it performs cleanly in terms of focal distortion, the maximum aperture shrinks significantly from a wide f/3.0 down to a very dim f/6.9 at the 600mm telephoto end, making handheld shooting in low light difficult. Additionally, atmospheric haze frequently degrades the visual quality of long-distance telephoto shots, and...

expertreviews.co.uk

12/07/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR review - Expert Reviews

Olympus SZ-30MR Review Summary The Olympus SZ-30MR is a highly capable compact camera that defies negative preconceptions regarding high-megapixel small sensors by delivering clean, highly detailed photos in bright conditions and surprisingly low noise in low-light environments. Its standout feature is an extraordinary 24x optical zoom packed into a pocket-sized body with minimal compromise to optical performance. Key advantages include its handsome and secure physical design with a moulded handgrip, a bright 3-inch screen, a manual pop-up flash lever, and a quick 1.8-second shot-to-shot performance. Furthermore, its Super Macro mode excels at capturing stunning close-ups from just centimeters away. Video capabilities are equally impressive, recording 1080p clips with active autofocus/zoom motors and excellent sound quality, alongside a multi-recording feature that allows capturing full-resolution photos during filming. Despite its strengths, the camera has notable limitations, particularly the complete lack of manual exposure options and manual white balance settings. Performance drops in certain scenarios; telephoto autofocus can occasionally hunt for a few seconds, and its fastest 5.8fps continuous shooting mode disables digital lens-distortion correction, resulting in heavy barrel distortion on wide-angle shots....

whatdigitalcamera.com

23/06/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR review - What Digital Camera

The Olympus SZ-30MR, reviewed by What Digital Camera, is a 16MP travel compact with a 24x optical zoom (25-600mm) that achieves an 81% rating,, thanks to its versatile, comfortable design. Its key pro is the Multi-Recording (MR) technology, allowing simultaneous 1080p video and full-resolution still capture, alongside a strong super macro mode. Conversely, the review notes cons regarding average image quality with inconsistent exposure, and a 3-inch, 461k-dot screen that performs poorly in bright light. Additionally, the camera's, particularly the loud chrome finish, may not appeal to all users.

computerwoche.de

18/07/2011

Summary of the review

Digital Camera: Olympus SZ-30MR Review

The Olympus SZ-30MR compact camera delivers a mixed performance centered around its unique Multi Recording (MR) technology, which allows users to capture photos and videos simultaneously, or record two separate videos with different focal lengths at once. In testing, the 16-megapixel camera demonstrated excellent noise control, generating very little image noise even at high ISO sensitivities. Its overall handling is highly stable due to an ergonomic handgrip. Additionally, it features a powerful 24x optical zoom (25-600mm equivalent lens), a mechanical image stabilizer, a sharp 3-inch screen, and creative "Magic-Filters" like "Glitter" or "Punk" to alter the appearance of photos. On the downside, the camera suffers from a low dynamic range that restricts its performance with high-contrast scenes, causing a loss of detail in highlights and shadows, as well as a noticeable inability to render deep blacks even at a low ISO 80 setting. Furthermore, its effective resolution drops at the wide-angle and telephoto edges of the frame, achieving an overall effective resolution efficiency of just 61.3% (around 6.1 megapixels). Testers also flagged sluggish operational speeds, long shutter lag, and delayed...

computerbild.de

17/11/2011

Summary of the review

Test: Olympus SZ-30MR Digital Camera

The COMPUTER BILD review awards the Olympus SZ-30 MR a "good" rating of 2.4. The camera stands out as a highly portable compact model equipped with a powerful 24x superzoom lens that covers focal lengths from 25mm to 595mm equivalent. A key highlight of this camera is its "Multi Recording" (MR) engine, which allows users to capture photos and Full HD videos simultaneously. Performance-wise, it demonstrates a very brief shutter lag of just 0.18 seconds in daylight, paired with highly efficient image stabilization that provides up to 4.3 stops of compensation at maximum telephoto range. Furthermore, it achieves a strong battery life capable of delivering roughly 870 shots per charge. Despite these strengths, the review highlights several prominent drawbacks. Image quality falls short regarding color accuracy, which looks somewhat unnatural, and visible noise becomes a problem once sensitivity climbs past ISO 1600. Video performance is only mediocre; camera pans cause noticeable stuttering, and the internal microphone records distracting noise from the autofocus zoom motor. Ergonomically, the camera takes a long 4.5 seconds to start up, the shutter button is awkward...

connect-living.de

15/07/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR Review

However, the reviewer points out several notable cons, particularly regarding performance at maximum zoom. In the telephoto range, image resolution drops significantly to 1038 LP/BH, and the camera forces aggressive, artificial internal sharpening to compensate, which makes image series look inconsistent. Due to the extreme focal length, using a tripod is strongly recommended because the built-in mechanical image stabilizer cannot prevent blur unless shooting in direct sunlight. Another major drawback is the sluggish shutter lag of over one second when taking telephoto shots. Lastly, while the dynamic range remains stable up to ISO 800, it fails to translate into visible image quality improvements during real-world test shots.

focus.de

26/07/2011

Summary of the review

Digital Camera Surprise Bag as a Travel Companion: Olympus SZ-30MR

The Olympus SZ-30MR is a highly versatile, feature-packed travel compact camera praised for its impressive performance and image quality, which ranks at the upper end of its class. Its standout feature is "Multi Recording" (MR), powered by a dual-processor system that lets users record Full HD videos (1080p) while simultaneously capturing full-resolution 16-megapixel photos. Furthermore, it offers innovative in-camera tricks like saving two versions of a photo at different focal lengths or applying unique Magic Filters to an image while preserving the original file. Equipped with a powerful 24x optical zoom (25–600mm equivalent) and a reliable, low-noise backlit CMOS sensor, the camera serves as a compelling, all-in-one companion for vacationers who prefer to avoid post-processing images on a PC. However, the reviewer notes several downsides, starting with a somewhat clunky exterior aesthetic that features a prominent flash hump and a front plastic coating resembling vintage 1980s flooring. Functionally, the 3-inch screen lacks VGA resolution, which is a significant drawback given the total absence of an optical viewfinder. The focusing motor also emits an irritating sound, described as sounding like "sand...

lesnumeriques.com

06/07/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR Review - Les Numériques

The Olympus SZ-30 MR is a unique hybrid digital camera featuring an impressive 24x optical zoom (25-600mm equivalent) and a 16 MP BSI CMOS sensor paired with dual image processors. This dual-processor architecture enables an innovative "multi-recording" (MR) mode, allowing users to capture full-resolution photos during video recording or simultaneously record dual files, such as two different crops or a filtered and normal version. The camera's main strengths lie in its massive zoom range packed into a relatively compact body, excellent image quality at medium and telephoto focal lengths, a comfortable grip, and 1080p HD video with stereo sound and active zoom. Additionally, it offers decent reactivity, starting up and focusing in less than two seconds and half a second respectively. However, the camera is heavily held back by several notable flaws, most significantly its TN display panel, which becomes completely unreadable when viewed from below and limits the camera's overall rating to 3 out of 5 stars. Image performance is perfectible above ISO 800 where noise heavily degrades the blues, and the lens shows a slight lack of sharpness...

priice.fr

27/03/2013

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR Review - Priice.fr

The Olympus SZ-30MR is a unique point-and-shoot camera that blends a compact, pocket-friendly body with the features of a larger bridge camera. Its standout feature is a dual-processor setup that allows for Multi-Recording (MR), meaning you can snap full-resolution, 16-megapixel photos while recording Full HD video at the same time. The camera is praised for its excellent hand grip, speedy startup times, and a powerful 24x optical zoom (25-600mm equivalent) that lets you get close to far-away targets without ruining the picture quality. It also includes a highly effective 1cm macro mode for ultra-close up photography. However, the camera has some significant drawbacks. The biggest issue is its 3-inch TN display screen, which suffers from poor viewing angles and inaccurate colors, making it very difficult to check your photos or frame shots in bright sunlight. Furthermore, users cannot save a custom white balance setting, limiting creative control over the image tones. While the photo quality is good up to 800 ISO, the small 1/2.3" sensor means details can get slightly blurry or lose sharpness if you push the camera into...

camerarace.com

02/03/2011

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR - Review and specifications - Camerarace

The Camerarace review of the Olympus SZ-30MR gives the compact bridge camera a low overall score of 28/100, citing below-average performance across portrait, landscape, and sport categories. Pros include its highly portable design, weighing only 226 grams, and a functional autofocus system capable of tracking moving subjects. Conversely, significant cons include poor battery life limiting shooting to 220 shots, the absence of wireless connectivity, and lack of weather sealing, making it vulnerable to harsh environments. The camera is noted for being among the smallest in its class but falls behind in overall technical capability. Camerarace

tomshw.it

13/04/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR - In the field - Tom's Hardware

The Olympus SZ-30MR is a portable travel camera featuring a versatile 24x optical zoom, a 1 cm Super Macro mode, and a rapid 9 fps full-resolution burst mode. It offers efficient, quick-access program settings, though it is limited by a small buffer during fast shooting. Key drawbacks include a complete lack of manual aperture and shutter speed controls and autofocus performance that degrades significantly in low-light conditions. The camera is best suited for users prioritizing zoom range and portability over manual creative control.

reway.nl

15/07/2024

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-30MR Digital Compact Camera Product Specifications

The Olympus SZ-30MR is a compact digital camera featured on the Reway marketplace. It is equipped with a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and a notable 24x optical zoom lens spanning a 25-600mm equivalent focal length. Designed for high portability, it measures 106 x 68 x 39.5 mm and weighs a lightweight 226 grams including the battery and memory card. Review specifications show it highlights creative functionalities like Magic Filters, a 3D shooting mode, and a 3-inch LCD screen for framing. Its defining feature is the Multi Recording (MR) capability, driven by dual TruePic III+ processors, which allows photographers to simultaneously capture 1080p Full HD video alongside full-resolution still images, or record two different video framings at once. Industry reviews highlight clear performance trade-offs for this travel-zoom compact. On the positive side, reviewers from What Digital Camera praise the innovative MR technology as genuinely useful rather than a gimmick. Experts at Imaging Resource commend its excellent handgrip, handsome design, and the impressive feat of packing a massive 24x zoom range into such a small, lightweight shell. Conversely, significant drawbacks exist regarding image...

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