Canon SX30 IS vs Panasonic FZ1000

The following is a extended comparison of the Canon SX30 IS and Panasonic FZ1000, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Large Sensor Superzoom by rivals Canon and Panasonic. There exists a crucial gap among the resolutions of the SX30 IS (14MP) and FZ1000 (20MP) and the SX30 IS (1/2.3") and FZ1000 (1") boast totally different sensor size.

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The SX30 IS was brought out 4 years before the FZ1000 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a brief summary of how the SX30 IS scores vs the FZ1000 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SX30 IS Gallery and Panasonic FZ1000 Gallery.

When you are planning to travel with your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Canon SX30 IS has physical measurements of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") along with a weight of 601 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ1000 has specifications of 137mm x 99mm x 131mm (5.4" x 3.9" x 5.2") having a weight of 831 grams (1.83 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX30 IS and Panasonic FZ1000 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the SX30 IS versus the FZ1000.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX30 IS and FZ1000 is 64 and 55 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions simply by checking out a spec sheet. The picture below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX30 IS and FZ1000.

As you can see, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The SX30 IS due to its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Panasonic FZ1000 will produce more detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics more aggressively. The more aged SX30 IS will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.