Canon SX170 IS vs Panasonic LZ30

Below is a detailed analysis of the Canon SX170 IS versus Panasonic LZ30, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the LZ30 (16MP) is fairly similar and they enjoy the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was launched 8 months later than the LZ30 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic LZ30 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SX170 IS matches up against the LZ30 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30. The complete galleries are viewable at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Panasonic LZ30 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Canon SX170 IS enjoys outer dimensions of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LZ30 has sizing of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") and a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX170 IS versus Panasonic LZ30 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is the front view size comparison of the SX170 IS against the LZ30.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SX170 IS and LZ30 is 88 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reading a spec sheet. The photograph below should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX170 IS and LZ30.

As you can see, both of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the same megapixels so you should expect similar quality of photos though you should consider the production date of the products into consideration. The more modern SX170 IS provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.