Canon SX500 IS vs Panasonic SZ1

Let's look closer at the Canon SX500 IS and Panasonic SZ1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Canon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SX500 IS (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is very well matched and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX500 IS was brought out 8 months after the SZ1 so they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief view of how the SX500 IS grades against the SZ1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX500 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SX500 IS Gallery and Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to travel with your camera, you're going to have to consider its weight and volume. The Canon SX500 IS offers physical measurements of 104mm x 70mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.8" x 3.1") having a weight of 341 grams (0.75 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ1 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX500 IS and Panasonic SZ1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the SX500 IS versus the SZ1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SX500 IS and SZ1 is 80 and 95 respectively.

Often, its tough to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by reading through technical specs. The pic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX500 IS and SZ1.

As you can tell, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same resolution so you should expect similar quality of photos however you may want to consider the release date of the products into consideration. The newer SX500 IS provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.