Canon SX420 IS vs Panasonic ZS8

Lets take a closer look at the Canon SX420 IS and Panasonic ZS8, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Canon and Panasonic. There exists a big gap between the sensor resolutions of the SX420 IS (20MP) and ZS8 (14MP) but both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SX420 IS was brought out 4 years later than the ZS8 and that is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Canon SX420 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple summation of how the SX420 IS scores against the ZS8 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX420 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The entire galleries are provided at Canon SX420 IS Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon SX420 IS features physical dimensions 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 ZS8 has proportions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX420 IS and Panasonic ZS8 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use at that moment. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the SX420 IS and the ZS8.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX420 IS and ZS8 is 80 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to picture the difference between sensor sizing just by looking at specs. The photograph underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX420 IS and ZS8.

All in all, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should anticipate the Canon SX420 IS to give extra detail having its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images a bit more aggressively. The newer SX420 IS should have an advantage in sensor tech.