Canon SX510 HS vs Panasonic ZS45

Following is a extensive analysis of the Canon SX510 HS versus Panasonic ZS45, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Canon and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the SX510 HS (12MP) and ZS45 (16MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX510 HS was released 16 months earlier than the ZS45 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a detailed comparison, here is a short overview of how the SX510 HS grades versus the ZS45 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX510 HS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX510 HS Gallery and Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry around your camera often, you'll need to take into account its weight and volume. The Canon SX510 HS has got exterior measurements of 104mm x 70mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.8" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 349 grams (0.77 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS45 has sizing of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Look at the Canon SX510 HS versus Panasonic ZS45 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the SX510 HS against the ZS45.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SX510 HS and ZS45 is 80 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizes just by researching technical specs. The image below will offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX510 HS and ZS45.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic ZS45 to render extra detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged SX510 HS will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.