Canon SX20 IS vs Panasonic LZ40

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Canon SX20 IS vs Panasonic LZ40, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Canon and Panasonic. There exists a large gap between the image resolutions of the SX20 IS (12MP) and LZ40 (20MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX20 IS was unveiled 4 years earlier than the LZ40 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before going into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple view of how the SX20 IS grades versus the LZ40 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX20 IS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40. The full galleries are viewable at Canon SX20 IS Gallery & Panasonic LZ40 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera often, you will want to take into account its weight and measurements. The Canon SX20 IS offers exterior measurements of 128mm x 88mm x 87mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LZ40 has proportions of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") with a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs).

Check out the Canon SX20 IS vs Panasonic LZ40 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the SX20 IS against the LZ40.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX20 IS and LZ40 is 65 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reading technical specs. The picture here should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SX20 IS and LZ40.

As you have seen, each of these cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Panasonic LZ40 to offer greater detail having an extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged SX20 IS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.