Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Panasonic ZS40 and Olympus SZ-30MR side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic ZS40 has external dimensions of 111 x 64 x 34 mm (4.37 x 2.52 x 1.34″) and weighs 240 g (0.53 lb / 8.47 oz) (including batteries). Olympus SZ-30MR has external dimensions of 106 x 69 x 40 mm (4.17 x 2.72 x 1.57″) and weighs 226 g (0.50 lb / 7.97 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS40 and the Olympus SZ-30MR. Panasonic ZS40 is 5mm shorter and 6mm thinner than Olympus SZ-30MR but it is also 5mm wider.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic ZS40 and Olympus SZ-30MR.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Olympus SZ-30MR is 14g lighter than the Panasonic ZS40 but we don't think this will make a significant difference.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 (Lumix DMC-TZ60) nor Olympus SZ-30MR provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS40 and Olympus SZ-30MR's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.