Canon SX20 IS vs Panasonic FZ2500

Here, we are analyzing the Canon SX20 IS and Panasonic FZ2500, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Large Sensor Superzoom by companies Canon and Panasonic. There exists a significant gap among the sensor resolutions of the SX20 IS (12MP) and FZ2500 (20MP) and the SX20 IS (1/2.3") and FZ2500 (1") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The SX20 IS was revealed 7 years before the FZ2500 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the SX20 IS grades against the FZ2500 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX20 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2500. The full galleries are available at Canon SX20 IS Gallery and Panasonic FZ2500 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you will have to take into account its weight and volume. The Canon SX20 IS provides outside dimensions of 128mm x 88mm x 87mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.4") having a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ2500 has sizing of 138mm x 102mm x 135mm (5.4" x 4.0" x 5.3") with a weight of 915 grams (2.02 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX20 IS and Panasonic FZ2500 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the SX20 IS versus the FZ2500.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX20 IS and FZ2500 is 65 and 53 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizing purely by checking out a spec sheet. The photograph underneath will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SX20 IS and FZ2500.

Clearly, both of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SX20 IS using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF trickier and the Panasonic FZ2500 will provide more detail because of its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images way more aggressively. The older SX20 IS will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.