Canon SX400 IS vs Panasonic Lumix ZS15: The Superzoom Compact Showdown

When diving into the compact superzoom camera pool, choices abound, but two cameras often pop up as tempting options for enthusiasts who crave significant reach without lugging around a telephoto lens: the Canon PowerShot SX400 IS and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. Both are compact superzooms announced within a couple of years of each other, boasting intense zoom ranges and usability aimed at travelers, casual shooters, and those who favor versatility over bulk.

But which one should you pull out of your pocket (if you still want pockets)? I’ve spent significant hands-on time with both models, juggled them across several shooting scenarios, and put their specs through practical paces to give you an honest head-to-head comparison. Whether you're picking a travel buddy, a street shooter’s sidekick, or a wildlife starter camera, this guide will illuminate where each model shines and where trade-offs are inevitable.

Let’s start with the nuts and bolts, shall we?

First Impressions and Handling: Form Meets Function

The Canon SX400 IS and Panasonic ZS15 both sling compact bodies that easily slide into a coat pocket - but the Canon is noticeably chunkier, measuring 104x69x80 mm and tipping the scales at 313 grams. Meanwhile, the Panasonic keeps it svelte at 105x58x33 mm and only 208 grams. That extra thickness in the Canon partly comes from the heftier zoom lens setup, which extends farther physically to accommodate the mighty 30x reach.

Using them side by side, the Canon feels more substantial and arguably more comfortable for prolonged shooting thanks to a slightly deeper grip area. I found my fingers wrapped around the Canon with less strain during extended capture sessions - a considerate nod for the ergonomics designers. The Panasonic, while lighter and easier to stash, does feel a bit toy-like in hand, which can affect confidence for demanding shots where steady grip counts.

The top panel layouts also reflect this design philosophy:

Canon’s simpler top controls offer fewer manual override buttons; it’s clearly designed for point-and-shoot ease, with minimal distraction. The Panasonic throws in exposure compensation, aperture priority, shutter priority modes, and manual exposure options - a workflow more appealing to enthusiasts who want control without diving into a full DSLR or mirrorless system. If you prefer to tinker and learn on the go, Panasonic’s interface gives you more levers to pull.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Machine

Both cameras utilize a 1/2.3" sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm with a sensor area of approximately 28 mm² - an industry standard for compact superzooms. However, their sensor technologies diverge and, unsurprisingly, Panasonic edges out the Canon here.

• Canon SX400 IS: 16-megapixel CCD sensor with a maximum native ISO of 1600.
• Panasonic ZS15: 12-megapixel CMOS sensor with ISO sensitivity up to 6400.

Why does this matter? CCD sensors have historically produced pleasing image colors, especially in controlled light, but they struggle with noise at higher ISOs and slower readout speeds. Meanwhile, CMOS sensors in the Panasonic provide better noise control, faster processing, and higher sensitivity - big advantages for low light and video.

In real-world shooting, I found the Panasonic delivering cleaner images at ISO 800 and above, with less grain and more retained detail. Canon’s higher pixel count doesn't translate into sharper images unless you shoot in ideal lighting, as noise and softness creep in earlier.

Dynamic range also favors Panasonic - scenes with bright skies and dark shadows tend to retain detail better on the ZS15, avoiding the dreaded “clipped” highlights common on older CCD sensors.

Ultimately, if raw image quality, low-light performance, and dynamic range are paramount, Panasonic’s CMOS sensor gives it an edge - though neither camera competes with larger sensors in advanced compacts or mirrorless models.

Zoom Range and Optical Performance: How Far Can You Go?

A superzoom camera's raison d'être is its lens. Let’s compare:

• Canon SX400 IS: 24-720 mm equivalent, 30x optical zoom, max aperture f/3.4 to f/5.8
• Panasonic ZS15: 24-384 mm equivalent, 16x optical zoom, max aperture f/3.3 to f/5.9

Canon’s 30x zoom is undeniably impressive and will pull distant subjects much closer - think birds on out-of-reach branches, distant landmarks, or street performers across a plaza. But that reach comes with compromises: the lens suffers from noticeable edge softness and chromatic aberration at full zoom, especially in challenging lighting. Using a tripod, stopping down the aperture can tame some of this.

Panasonic’s 16x is more modest but optically cleaner, delivering sharper edges and better color consistency across the zoom range. For casual landscape, travel, or street photography, Panasonic’s zoom range is ample and yields more reliably crisp images.

Image stabilization in both cameras is optical and effective at minimizing shake during telephoto shots, although the Canon showed slight more jitter at max zoom in handheld tests - expected given the longer lens extension.

Autofocus Speed and Accuracy: Catching the Moment

Autofocus systems really separate everyday snapshot cameras from serious shooters.

• Canon SX400 IS: Contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points and face detection.
• Panasonic ZS15: Contrast-detection AF with 23 focus points, continuous AF, face detection but no animal eye AF.

While neither sports phase-detection AF (the gold standard for speed), Panasonic's higher number of AF points and continuous AF mode make a noticeable difference in speed and accuracy, especially in good light. The ZS15 consistently locked focus faster on moving subjects and tracked them better during burst shooting (2 fps compared to Canon’s 1 fps).

Face detection on the Canon helps portrait framing, though it occasionally hunts in lower light or complex scenes, frustrating quick candid shots. Tracking for wildlife or sports is modest in both cameras (after all, their category), but Panasonic performs a little better.

Neither model has advanced animal eye AF like you’d see in newer models, so wildlife photography remains a challenge here, especially for smaller or faster critters.

LCD and User Interface: Framing Your Shot

Both cameras use a fixed 3-inch LCD, but Panasonic doubles the resolution with 460k pixels versus Canon’s 230k - making a surprisingly visible difference in image review sharpness and menu clarity. The Canon’s screen can look murky outdoors in bright light, whereas Panasonic is easier to use in these conditions.

Neither camera has a viewfinder or a touchscreen, which limits composition flexibility and rapid settings engagement. This is typical for their class but worth noting for photographers used to more tactile or eye-level framing options.

Panasonic’s menu system offers more advanced controls and exposure tweaking on the fly, welcoming enthusiasts willing to dig in. Canon’s interface is simpler, friendlier for beginners or users who want to point and shoot without fuss.

Video Quality: Beyond Stills

If you’re after smooth video, Panasonic again takes the crown in this comparison:

• Canon SX400 IS: 720p at 25fps, formats MPEG-4, H.264
• Panasonic ZS15: Full HD 1080p at 60fps (plus 720p at 60fps), formats MPEG-4, AVCHD

The higher resolution and frame rate on the ZS15 allow for significantly better video quality, smoother motion, and more editing latitude. The Canon’s 720p max resolution feels outdated, and the frame rate limits fluidity for fast action scenes.

Neither camera features an external microphone input or headphone jack, so audio control is basic. Both offer optical stabilization during video, helping keep shots steady handheld.

If video capture matters to you beyond simple clips, Panasonic’s ZS15 offers a genuinely better experience.

Durability, Battery, and Connectivity: The Practical Details

Neither camera is weather-sealed or ruggedized - typical compromises in the superzoom compact category. If you shoot in the elements often, you’ll want a protective case or to consider more robust models.

Battery life is surprisingly better on the Panasonic ZS15, rated for approximately 260 shots per charge versus 190 on the Canon SX400 IS. This 37% increase can be a decisive factor on long trips or multi-day outings where recharging opportunities are limited.

Connectivity-wise, both cameras omit Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS, curtailing modern conveniences like instant sharing and geotagging. The Panasonic adds HDMI output for easy connection to TVs - a nice touch for reviewing footage - whereas the Canon lacks this feature altogether.

Memory card compatibility is virtually the same - SD/SDHC/SDXC cards supported, though Panasonic also has a bit of internal storage.

In-Depth Genre Performance: Which Excels Where?

To really understand how these cameras perform, let's break down their strengths and limitations by photography type:

Canon SX400 IS front Canon SX400 IS screen back Panasonic ZS15 front Panasonic ZS15 screen back

Portrait Photography

• Canon SX400 IS: Higher resolution sensor can capture more facial detail if lighting is decent. Face detection helps but isn’t always snappy. Limited bokeh potential due to small sensor and lens aperture range.
• Panasonic ZS15: Lower resolution nominally but cleaner images. Slight advantage in low light to capture subtle skin tones due to better ISO setting. Manual modes allow finer exposure control to avoid blown highlights on faces.

Winner: Panasonic edges ahead for consistent color and cleaner images, but neither creates notably creamy bokeh due to small sensors.

Landscape Photography

• Canon SX400 IS: 16 MP might offer a bit more cropping room, but limited dynamic range clips shadows more easily. Zoom reach is overwhelming for landscape needs.
• Panasonic ZS15: Better dynamic range lets it capture subtle clouds and foliage details more faithfully. 16x zoom suffices for most landscape scenes, especially with higher sharpness.

Winner: Panasonic for better DR and overall image quality in diverse scenery.

Wildlife Photography

• Canon SX400 IS: The 30x zoom is a powerful lure for wildlife-focused shooters on a budget. However, autofocus speed and burst rate (1 fps) hold it back from capturing fast action.
• Panasonic ZS15: Faster AF and 2 fps burst rate help track animals, but shorter zoom could limit close-ups.

Winner: Canon for reach; Panasonic for speed - choose based on target species and shooting style.

Sports Photography

Both cameras struggle here due to slow continuous shooting speeds and contrast-based AF. Panasonic’s 2 fps burst and quicker AF help, but don’t expect professional results.

Street Photography

• Canon SX400 IS: Bulkier size compared to Panasonic might be a giveaway. Less discreet.
• Panasonic ZS15: Smaller, lighter, and faster to control - ideal for quick candid shots.

Winner: Panasonic for portability and speed.

Macro Photography

• Canon SX400 IS: No true macro mode or close focusing distance listed, making it less versatile up close.
• Panasonic ZS15: Can focus as close as 3 cm, offering more potential for macro shots.

Winner: Panasonic with noticeable macro advantage.

Night and Astro Photography

Neither camera is optimized for long exposures or astrophotography. Canon’s minimum shutter speed caps at 1/15s, Panasonic at 1/15s too, which is limiting. Panasonic’s higher ISO ceiling and cleaner outputs marginally improve low-light shots.

Video Capabilities

A clear Panasonic win here, thanks to 1080p60 recording and better AVCHD codec support for higher quality video.

Travel Photography

Here, size, zoom range, battery life, and versatility converge:

• Canon’s extraordinary 30x zoom offers the most versatility for varying focal lengths.
• Panasonic’s smaller form, lighter weight, longer battery life, and superior video make it a more reliable all-round companion.

Professional Work

With no raw support or advanced file formats, neither camera fits a professional workflow. They’re best viewed as casual to enthusiast cameras rather than pro tools.

Price-to-Performance Ratio: What’s the Real Value?

Currently, the Canon SX400 IS hovers around $229 and the Panasonic ZS15 at $279 - a modest gap but reflective of their feature sets.

If zoom reach is your number one priority and you’re happy with decent-but-not-great image quality, Canon offers unmatched value here.

For better image quality, manual control, video capabilities, and ergonomics, paying a bit more for the Panasonic is smart.

Verdict: Matching Cameras to Users

• For wildlife casuals wanting reach, the Canon SX400 IS is a great budget-friendly choice.
• For enthusiasts wanting better low-light and video, the Panasonic ZS15’s capabilities justify its price premium.
• For travelers who want a camera that is easy to carry and versatile, the Panasonic’s smaller form and longer battery life win.
• For street photographers craving discretion, the ZS15 is less intrusive.

Closing Thoughts: Do Old Superzooms Still Hold Up?

These cameras don’t claim to replace mirrorless or DSLR systems, nor do they capture the nuance or dynamic range of modern sensors. But for their class and price, they deliver surprisingly comprehensive packages.

The Canon SX400 IS is the last hurrah of mega zooms on a point-and-shoot budget - a tool for those who want to pull faraway scenes closer without fuss. Meanwhile, the Panasonic ZS15 offers a more refined experience, balancing zoom with better image quality, manual control, and video.

In the end, consider what photography styles you plan to pursue and what features you prioritize. Both are still useful cameras that can teach and inspire - if you meet them on their terms.

Happy shooting!

All photography samples and detailed testing performed over multiple sessions in urban, outdoor, and indoor environments, with standardized lighting conditions and comparison charts where applicable. This review reflects extensive hands-on experience balancing specifications with real-world usability - the only way to really tell what a camera delivers.