Canon SX40 HS vs Panasonic ZS40

The following is a thorough analysis of the Canon SX40 HS vs Panasonic ZS40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Canon and Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference among the image resolutions of the SX40 HS (12MP) and ZS40 (18MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX40 HS was manufactured 3 years before the ZS40 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Canon SX40 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the SX40 HS scores versus the ZS40 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX40 HS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SX40 HS Gallery & Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and size. The Canon SX40 HS has outer dimensions of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") having a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS40 has specifications of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX40 HS vs Panasonic ZS40 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the SX40 HS compared to the ZS40.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SX40 HS and ZS40 is 64 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to envision the difference in sensor dimensions simply by seeing technical specs. The picture underneath will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SX40 HS and ZS40.

As you have seen, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size but not the same resolution. You can expect to see the Panasonic ZS40 to show extra detail due to its extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images way more aggressively. The more aged SX40 HS will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.