Canon SX160 IS vs Panasonic ZS8

Here is a in-depth overview of the Canon SX160 IS versus Panasonic ZS8, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by companies Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the SX160 IS (16MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is fairly similar and they possess the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX160 IS was released 24 months later than the ZS8 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SX160 IS matches up vs the ZS8 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX160 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The complete galleries are available at Canon SX160 IS Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and proportions. The Canon SX160 IS features outside dimensions of 111mm x 73mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.9" x 1.7") and a weight of 291 grams (0.64 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS8 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX160 IS versus Panasonic ZS8 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have during that time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the SX160 IS against the ZS8.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX160 IS and ZS8 is 86 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to see the gap between sensor sizing simply by reviewing technical specs. The visual below will provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX160 IS and ZS8.

As you can tell, both the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Canon SX160 IS to offer extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more recent SX160 IS is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.