Name: Olympus SZ-31MR iHS
Brand: Olympus

Technical Specifications of Olympus SZ-31MR iHS

Overall score

5.1

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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

5.2

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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

5.4

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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

5.2

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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

6.2

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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

3.1

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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-31MR iHS vs the average camera

Why is Olympus SZ-31MR iHS better than the average camera?

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In-body stabilization
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Uses a BSI sensor
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
Supports slow-motion video
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
Supports up to 240 fps high-speed video.
What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
Has a touchscreen
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
Supports touch autofocus
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
What it is: Allows the user to tap a specific area on the viewfinder screen to set the focus point manually.
When it matters: When you want creative control to decide exactly which part of the image should be sharp.
Importance: LOW
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
38.2% lighter
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is lighter than the average camera (244 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-31MR iHS is lighter than the average camera (244 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.244 g vs 395 g
0.06 GB more storage
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS 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
13.6 mm narrower
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is narrower than the average camera (106.3 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-31MR iHS is narrower than the average camera (106.3 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.106.3 mm vs 119.9 mm
Has a touchscreen
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
38.2% lighter
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is lighter than the average camera (244 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
13.6 mm narrower
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is narrower than the average camera (106.3 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
Uses a BSI sensor
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
In-body stabilization
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Supports touch autofocus
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
Supports slow-motion video
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
0.06 GB more storage
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS worse than the average camera?

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No hot shoe
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
Smaller sensor
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
2 µm smaller sensor pixels
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.
0.2 MP lower sensor resolution
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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.
18900 ISO lower extended sensitivity limit
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6400 ISO vs 25300 ISO). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25300 ISO.
1 older
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
April 2012
3.2 fps slower mechanical burst
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (2.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
No RAW photo capture
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
No manual focus mode
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
No manual exposure control
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS 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.
130 shots fewer shots per charge
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has shorter battery life than the average camera (200 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
195 mAh smaller battery capacity
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (925 mAh vs 1120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1120 mAh.
Smaller sensor
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS 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
No hot shoe
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
3.2 fps slower mechanical burst
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (2.5 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-31MR iHS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (2.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.2.5 fps vs 5.7 fps
130 shots fewer shots per charge
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has shorter battery life than the average camera (200 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-31MR iHS has shorter battery life than the average camera (200 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.200 shots vs 330 shots
No RAW photo capture
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
0.2 MP lower sensor resolution
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS 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-31MR iHS 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
18900 ISO lower extended sensitivity limit
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6400 ISO vs 25300 ISO). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25300 ISO.
What it is: The highest extended ISO setting available beyond the standard sensitivity range of the sensor.
When it matters: When you shoot in very dark conditions and want the option to push sensitivity beyond the normal ISO range.
Importance: MEDIUM
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6400 ISO vs 25300 ISO). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25300 ISO.6400 ISO vs 25300 ISO

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

16/05/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR Digital Compact Camera Review - ePHOTOzine

The Olympus SZ-31MR, as reviewed by ePHOTOzine, is a compact camera featuring a 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and a versatile 24x optical zoom lens (25-600mm) that delivers well-exposed, color-accurate images. It excels in speed with 10fps burst shooting and 1080p video, aided by dual TruePic V processors, while offering a 3cm macro mode for close-up shots. Conversely, the review notes that image quality becomes soft in the corners at full zoom, and the 3.0-inch touchscreen lacks visibility in bright sunlight. The camera lacks a viewfinder and, for advanced users, misses RAW support and full manual controls, though it offers capable iAuto and Magic Filter modes.

expertreviews.co.uk

13/05/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR review - Expert Reviews

The Expert Reviews evaluation highlights the Olympus SZ-31MR as a highly capable compact travel-zoom camera, particularly praised for its innovative multi-recording capabilities. The camera's standout feature is its ability to simultaneously record 1080p Full HD video at 30fps and capture full-resolution 16-megapixel still images. It features an impressive 24x optical zoom lens, a sharp 3-inch touchscreen display with a high 920,000-dot resolution, and strong continuous shooting speeds that can reach up to 60fps at a reduced 5-megapixel resolution. Additionally, the camera is equipped with helpful built-in creative shooting tools, including an automatic panorama stitcher and HDR exposure modes. However, the reviewer notes that the device compromises on raw performance and manual customization. The camera entirely lacks manual exposure controls and built-in GPS functionality. While the massive 24x lens performs relatively well across its focal range, the overall image quality is deemed good rather than excellent, as the 16-megapixel sensor struggles in low-light environments, producing noticeably smudged details upon close inspection. Its shot-to-shot response time is also somewhat sluggish at 1.8 seconds. Finally, the audio performance in video mode is occasionally...

reviewed.com

29/06/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Review - Reviewed

The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS is a compact travel-zoom camera that upgrades its predecessor with a new touch-screen interface, slightly modified control layout, and faster processing speeds driven by dual TruePic V processors. On the positive side, the camera boasts an impressive 24x optical zoom range, a responsive and well-integrated touch shutter/focus system, excellent color accuracy with near-perfect saturation, and highly versatile burst shooting modes capable of up to 10 frames per second at full resolution. Beginners will also benefit from an accessible Intelligent Auto setting and a smooth 1080p video mode that performs well even under low-light conditions. However, the camera suffers from significant design and performance drawbacks. Its primary flaw is the "zoom ratio trap," where squeezing a massive 24x zoom into a tiny body severely degrades overall image quality, resulting in below-average sharpness scores, heavy pixelation from overly aggressive noise-reduction software, and noticeable color fringing (chromatic aberration). Physically, the camera features an outdated design, a recessed and inconvenient power button, a loose mode dial that shifts easily in pockets, and an ergonomically frustrating video button placed directly in...

trustedreviews.com

03/07/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR Review - Trusted Reviews

The Olympus SZ-31MR, featured on Trusted Reviews, is a compact travel camera featuring a 24x optical zoom (25-600mm equivalent) that offers excellent color reproduction, fast continuous shooting, and sharp 1080p video. It is praised for its practical touchscreen and reliable battery life, making it a convenient, portable option for travelers. Trusted Reviews However, the review notes significant drawbacks, including soft, mushy image details at the edges when zooming beyond 10x, and a tendency for noise reduction to smear fine details at higher ISO settings. Additionally, the camera struggles with flattering portraits and has awkward handling due to poorly placed power and video buttons.

whatdigitalcamera.com

04/07/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR Review - What Digital Camera

The Olympus SZ-31MR is a capable, compact travel camera featuring a 24x (25-600mm) optical zoom, a 16.8-megapixel CMOS sensor, and a 3-inch 920k-dot touchscreen that produces excellent, color-accurate images with fast performance. Pros include its versatile zoom range, high-speed shooting, Full 1080p video, and solid, portable build. However, the camera struggles with screen visibility in direct, bright sunlight, and lacks an electronic viewfinder. Additionally, it provides limited manual controls and produces underwhelming portrait shots compared to its strong, general-purpose performance.

cnet.com

26/12/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR review

The Olympus SZ-31MR is a compact travel-zoom camera that features a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor paired with a powerful 24x zoom lens (25-600mm equivalent). It is highly praised for its quality build, excellent 3-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, and punchy, nicely balanced image quality at lower zoom levels. Performance-wise, the camera shines in high-speed continuous shooting, capable of firing up to 12 full-resolution images at 7.5 frames per second (fps) or capturing lower-resolution images at a staggering 61.6fps using its built-in buffer. Video capabilities are also solid, recording 1080p Full HD video at 60fps with effective sensor-shift image stabilization that reduces hand shake. However, the camera has notable drawbacks that hold it back from perfection. Its headline "multi-recording" features—such as recording small video clips alongside a photo or capturing two differently sized files at once—are heavily dismissed as useless gimmicks. While low-magnification photos are incredibly sharp, image quality suffers a noticeable drop-off once you push past the 10x zoom threshold, resulting in softer details and visible grain as ISO numbers climb past ISO 800. Additionally, the exposure compensation menu creates frustrating...

memeburn.com

29/01/2013

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR Review: for the discerning amateur Are you looking for sample images or technical specifications for this specific model?

The Olympus SZ-31MR is an entry-to-mid-level digital camera tailored for amateur photographers seeking high-end features in a highly portable package. Chief among its pros is the impressive 16-megapixel lens with a 24x optical zoom, allowing users to capture crisp 16:9 ratio photos and highly detailed close-ups of distant objects. The camera boasts a sleek, lightweight, and pocket-sized design accompanied by a clear 3-inch screen and a highly intuitive layout. Additionally, it introduces an innovative multi-recording feature that allows users to seamlessly snap photos while simultaneously recording full 1080p HD video at 60 frames-per-second. Casual users will also appreciate the creative freedom offered by its built-in radial dial filters, such as the "Dramatic" mode and a localized "Beauty" mode that acts as an easy-to-use Photoshop alternative for portrait touch-ups. However, the camera suffers from significant drawbacks, most notably its critically flawed audio recording during videography. Because the built-in microphones are positioned directly above the lens, they explicitly capture the internal mechanical whirring of the autofocus motor, rendering ambient voices and sound nearly impossible to decipher. Compounding this issue is the total...

chip.de

10/08/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR (Digital Camera) Review - CHIP

The Olympus SZ-31MR is a compact travel zoom camera praised for packing a massive 24x optical zoom (25–600mm equivalent) into a remarkably handy and high-quality metal body. Its standout features include a sharp 3.0-inch touchscreen with 920,000 pixels and an impressively powerful integrated flash. Image quality is generally solid, specifically noted for having low noise even at higher ISO settings, and the autofocus is quick enough for snapshots at wide-angle settings, clocking in at 0.35 seconds. However, the camera has several technical drawbacks, most notably a loud image stabilizer that creates audible noise on video recordings. While the central image resolution is high, it drops significantly toward the corners, and users may notice visible vignetting (darkening of the corners). Battery life is also a weak point, lasting for only 100 to 340 photos per charge, and the camera lacks manual or semi-manual shooting modes, limiting it strictly to automatic use. How do you plan to use this camera—mostly for travel photos or are you looking for something that handles video better?

connect-living.de

05/08/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR review - digital travel camera - CONNECT Living

The Olympus SZ-31 MR is a compact travel camera featuring a 24x optical zoom range (25-600mm equivalent) and a 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor. A major standout feature is its dual TruePic V image processors, which enable "Multi-Recording" so users can capture full-resolution photos while simultaneously recording Full HD video. The camera also features a 3-inch touchscreen display with 306,700 RGB pixels that supports "Tap Control" for quick focusing and shooting. Designed similarly to an SLR, it offers a distinct, practical handgrip on the right side for a secure hold despite its 244-gram weight. In terms of performance, the review highlights several pros and cons. On the positive side, the camera delivers fine, balanced details and improved image processing at wide angles with low sensitivity (ISO 100), avoiding the heavily over-sharpened edges seen in earlier models. The touch focus is also highly effective at short focal lengths. However, significant downsides include a rapid drop in image quality at longer zoom positions and higher ISO settings. Furthermore, its slow maximum aperture range (f/3.0 to f/6.9) limits low-light shooting, and the physical main...

netzwelt.de

08/05/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR review | NETZWELT

The Olympus SZ-31MR review highlights a highly versatile travel compact camera built around a massive 24x optical zoom lens. This lens delivers a wide focal reach equivalent to 25–600mm in a 35mm format, making it exceptionally adaptable for both expansive landscapes and distant subjects. Users navigate settings via a right-side screen overlay, while the main menu handles core configurations. On the hardware side, the device features a high-resolution 3-inch display sporting 920,000 pixels, a built-in pop-up flash, micro-HDMI and micro-USB ports, and standard SD card compatibility alongside its lithium-ion power source.

lesnumeriques.com

26/06/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SZ-31MR Review - Les Numériques

The Olympus SZ-31MR is a compact "mini-bridge" camera that builds upon its predecessor, the SZ-30, by successfully upgrading its most flawed component: the display screen. The new 3-inch touchscreen features significantly wider viewing angles and VGA resolution, letting users easily frame shots from awkward angles, though its colors remain slightly inaccurate. The camera stands out for its high-utility "multi-recording" (MR) features, which allow users to capture full-resolution photos during video capture or record two video streams simultaneously. Furthermore, its upgraded "MR Frame" mode utilizes the touchscreen to dynamically adjust the framing of the secondary, tighter video crop while a wide-angle shot is running. On the hardware side, it packs a massive 24x zoom lens (24-600mm equivalent) with clean optical performance and an outstanding "super macro" mode at a 66mm equivalent focal length. However, the camera has notable limitations regarding performance, audio, and build quality. Its overall startup time takes over two seconds due to the complex lens extension mechanism. Image processing has been altered to reduce noise in dark regions, which improves overall cleanliness on smaller screens but triggers a...

forum.lesnumeriques.com

26/06/2012

Summary of the review

Digital Camera Review: Olympus SZ-31MR

The Olympus SZ-31MR is praised as a highly versatile, travel-friendly camera packaged in a compact, lightweight body that offers a massive 24x optical zoom (25-600mm equivalent). Users and reviewers highlight its excellent multi-recording capability, allowing users to shoot 1080p Full HD video while simultaneously snapping full-resolution 16MP still images. Performance-wise, it features an incredibly fast autofocus system and impressive high-speed continuous shooting modes—reaching up to 10 fps at full resolution or a blistering 60 fps at 3 megapixels. Additionally, it upgrades its user experience from its predecessor with an intuitive, high-resolution 3.0-inch touchscreen and offers strong color fidelity under normal daylight conditions. However, the camera suffers from notable trade-offs in image and audio quality. Its aggressive JPEG noise reduction software causes heavy image smoothing, leading to a loss in definition, thick unnatural edges, and harsh artifacting at high ISO settings. The extreme 24x zoom lens also sacrifices sharpness, introducing prominent chromatic aberration and color fringing in high-contrast areas. Low-light handling remains a weakness, as the automatic white balance struggles under complex mixed lighting—often introducing an unnatural brownish tint into neutral...

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