Canon SD980 IS vs Panasonic ZS20

Here, we will be contrasting the Canon SD980 IS versus Panasonic ZS20, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Canon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SD980 IS (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras provide the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SD980 IS was announced 3 years prior to the ZS20 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SD980 IS scores versus the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SD980 IS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SD980 IS Gallery & Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera, you're going to have to factor in its weight and volume. The Canon SD980 IS enjoys exterior dimensions of 100mm x 53mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.1" x 0.9") along with a weight of 150 grams (0.33 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Examine the Canon SD980 IS versus Panasonic ZS20 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the SD980 IS versus the ZS20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SD980 IS and ZS20 is 95 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions simply by going through specs. The picture underneath might give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the SD980 IS and ZS20.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic ZS20 to produce more detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The more aged SD980 IS will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.