Canon SX420 IS vs Panasonic ZS40

In this article, we are contrasting the Canon SX420 IS vs Panasonic ZS40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Canon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SX420 IS (20MP) and the ZS40 (18MP) is very close and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SX420 IS was announced 2 years after the ZS40 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX420 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a quick overview of how the SX420 IS matches up vs the ZS40 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX420 IS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX420 IS Gallery & Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to travel with your camera regularly, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX420 IS has got outside measurements of 104mm x 69mm x 85mm (4.1" x 2.7" x 3.3") having a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS40 has dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX420 IS vs Panasonic ZS40 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SX420 IS against the ZS40.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX420 IS and ZS40 is 80 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to see the gap in sensor dimensions just by researching a spec sheet. The picture here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SX420 IS and ZS40.

As you can see, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Canon SX420 IS to render extra detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The more modern SX420 IS is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.