Canon A3200 IS vs Panasonic SZ8

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Canon A3200 IS versus Panasonic SZ8, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the A3200 IS (14MP) and the SZ8 (16MP) is pretty well matched and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The A3200 IS was brought out 4 years earlier than the SZ8 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a full comparison, below is a short summary of how the A3200 IS grades against the SZ8 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot A3200 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The entire galleries are provided at Canon A3200 IS Gallery and Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Canon A3200 IS features outside dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 149 grams (0.33 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ8 has specifications of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Canon A3200 IS versus Panasonic SZ8 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the A3200 IS compared to the SZ8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the A3200 IS and SZ8 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it is very difficult to see the gap between sensor dimensions only by looking at specs. The image underneath will offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the A3200 IS and SZ8.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Panasonic SZ8 to give extra detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged A3200 IS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.