Canon SX40 HS vs Panasonic ZS20

On this page, we are evaluating the Canon SX40 HS and Panasonic ZS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the SX40 HS (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is very close and both cameras posses the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SX40 HS was revealed 7 months before the ZS20 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Canon SX40 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a short highlight of how the SX40 HS grades vs the ZS20 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX40 HS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The full galleries are viewable at Canon SX40 HS Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon SX40 HS provides outside dimensions of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") along with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has proportions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX40 HS and Panasonic ZS20 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the SX40 HS vs the ZS20.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SX40 HS and ZS20 is 64 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to visualise the difference in sensor measurements only by viewing specifications. The visual below will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the SX40 HS and ZS20.

To sum up, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS20 to result in extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The older SX40 HS will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.