Canon SX30 IS vs Panasonic ZS20

Below, we will be reviewing the Canon SX30 IS and Panasonic ZS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the SX30 IS (14MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is pretty similar and they come with the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SX30 IS was introduced 19 months earlier than the ZS20 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX30 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a short highlight of how the SX30 IS matches up versus the ZS20 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX30 IS Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and volume. The Canon SX30 IS comes with external measurements of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") with a weight of 601 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS20 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX30 IS and Panasonic ZS20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the SX30 IS and the ZS20.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SX30 IS and ZS20 is 64 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing just by reviewing specifications. The visual underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX30 IS and ZS20.

To sum up, each of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the same exact megapixels and you should expect similar quality of images but you might want to take the production date of the products into consideration. The older SX30 IS is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.