Casio EX-ZR800 vs Panasonic Lumix ZS1: The Ultimate Small Sensor Superzoom Showdown

If you’re considering a compact superzoom camera that won’t break the bank but still delivers solid image quality and versatile zoom range, you’ve probably stumbled upon the Casio EX-ZR800 and the Panasonic Lumix ZS1 (also known as the Lumix DMC-TZ6). Both cameras belong to the same compact category with small sensors and drag-race zoom capabilities, but they differ in many practical ways that affect real-world performance and shooting experience.

Having spent weeks with both cameras side-by-side, pushing their limits in various shooting scenarios and scrutinizing their technical details, I’m here to walk you through an honest, detailed comparison. Let’s dive into how these two stack up - from sensors and lenses to ergonomics and video chops - so you can decide which one deserves space in your camera bag.

The Physical Feel: Size and Ergonomics Face-Off

First impressions count, and for walk-around cameras in this category, size, weight, and usability influence how often you actually use the thing.

Here’s the deal: Both cameras are pocketable, but the Casio EX-ZR800 is slightly taller and thinner at 108x60x31mm compared to the Panasonic’s chunkier 103x60x33mm frame. The Casio tilts lightweight at just 222g, slightly under the Panasonic’s 229g. Those few grams are barely noticeable but contribute to the Casio feeling a smidge more travel-friendly for all-day carry.

Button placement reflects their intended audience too. The Casio’s controls feel more thoughtfully laid out, with dedicated dials and customizable buttons that cater to users who want manual control without fumbling. The Panasonic’s buttons are functional but a touch cramped, and it lacks manual exposure modes which can frustrate enthusiasts.

I found the Casio’s grip more comfortable during prolonged handheld shooting, especially with the extended zoom barrel. The Panasonic’s smoother body looks sleek but felt a bit slippery in my hands, so don’t forget a wrist strap!

Design and Control Layout: Intuitive or Clunky?

A camera can have amazing specs but lose points if it’s a pain to operate. Let’s peer at the top-down view before digging into the LCD and interface.

The EX-ZR800 sports a more tactile top layout with a prominent mode dial, strategically placed zoom rocker, and a well-sized shutter release button. This setup gives quick access to key features like exposure compensation and scene modes without diving into menus.

Conversely, the ZS1 has a less obvious mode dial and smaller buttons clustered together. Its omission of manual exposure modes (shutter priority, aperture priority, manual) means users relying on creative exposure control might feel boxed in. Also, the lack of a built-in EV mode (exposure variation) means no bracketing - a downside if you want to experiment with HDR later.

For me, the EX-ZR800 wins the usability game thanks to immediate hands-on controls that reduce the number of menu dives during shooting.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: Key to Sharpness and Detail

Now, the heart of any camera - the sensor. Sensor size directly impacts image quality potential: larger sensors catch more light, reduce noise, and have greater dynamic range.

• Casio EX-ZR800: Uses a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, sized 6.17 x 4.55 mm, with a resolution of 16 megapixels.
• Panasonic ZS1: Shrinks a bit to a 1/2.5-inch CCD sensor (5.744 x 4.308 mm), offering 10 megapixels.

The Casio’s CMOS sensor generally outperforms the older CCD tech in low-light performance, readout speed, and noise handling. The higher pixel count yields sharper prints and crops given good lighting conditions. Its native ISO range of 80 to 3200 provides flexibility, though pushing past ISO 1600 creates noticeable noise.

In comparison, the Panasonic’s 10MP CCD sensor produces respectable daylight images but struggles as ISO increases beyond 800. The CCD sensor architecture tends to have slower readout and higher rolling shutter, limiting utility for fast-moving subjects and video.

Based on side-by-side test shots, the Casio delivers punchier colors, better shadow detail, and less chromatic noise after processing. That said, under bright sunlight, the difference narrows, and the Panasonic holds its own with color accuracy and detail.

LCD Screen and Interface: What You See Is What You Get

Navigating menus and framing shots rely heavily on the rear LCD. Here’s where the Casio flexes some modern muscle against the Panasonic’s more dated interface.

The EX-ZR800 boasts a 3-inch Fixed Super Clear TFT display with a high resolution of 922K dots. The image is crisp, bright, and visible even in outdoor sunlight - no squinting to compose your shot. The screen isn’t touchscreen, but menus are snappy and straightforward.

In contrast, the ZS1 sticks with a smaller 2.7-inch LCD, and resolution drops drastically to 230K dots. This means grainier preview images and more sluggish menu navigation. For framing tight shots or checking fine detail on the fly, this can slow you down and frustrate accuracy.

Neither camera features an electronic viewfinder, which is common at this price point - so you’ll be relying on the LCD outdoors.

Lens and Zoom Performance: Reach, Sharpness, and Versatility

Zoom lenses are the playground of superzoom compacts - they promise an all-purpose lens without lugging heavy glass.

Casio EX-ZR800:

• Focal length: 25-450 mm equivalence (18x zoom)
• Max aperture: f/3.5 - f/5.9
• Macro focus distance: 4 cm
• Lens stabilization: Sensor-shift image stabilization

Panasonic ZS1:

• Focal length: 25-300 mm equivalence (12x zoom)
• Max aperture: f/3.3 - f/4.9
• Macro focus distance: 3 cm
• Lens stabilization: Optical image stabilization

The Casio’s 18x zoom range really stands out here - an 8cm difference in telephoto reach means more flexibility for wildlife, sports, or even street photography from a discreet distance. The sensor-shift stabilization is quite effective at reducing shake up to 1/15 sec at long telephoto ends, which I verified in handheld forest hikes.

But there’s a trade-off: At full telephoto, sharpness declines noticeably on the Casio, which is common for extreme superzooms. Wide-angle images remain crisp and contrasty, great for landscapes.

The Panasonic shines with its slightly faster aperture at the long end (f/4.9 vs f/5.9), allowing a bit more light - useful in dim environments. Its macro focus is closer, at 3cm, making it better for close-up flower or product shots.

Both lenses exhibit moderate distortion at wide angles; however, Panasonic offers better control over barrel distortion, which some users care about in architectural or street photography.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: How Fast and Accurate are They?

A camera’s autofocus system determines how well it captures fleeting moments or tracks moving subjects.

• EX-ZR800: Features contrast-detection AF, center-weighted with multi-AF area and face detection. No phase detection.
• ZS1: Also uses contrast-detection AF with 11 focus points and face detection, no phase detection.

In practical tests, the Casio locks focus quickly in good light but hunts slower under low light - typical for contrast AF systems. Its continuous shooting hits a steady 3 fps, which is ok but not sports-level fast.

Panasonic’s AF was similarly responsive in daylight but occasionally lagged over complex backgrounds or low light scenes. Its burst speed matches Casio’s 3 fps.

While neither camera offers advanced tracking or continuous autofocus during burst (key for wildlife or sports), the Casio’s face detection is more reliable for portraits on the go.

Video Capabilities: What’s Possible Beyond Stills?

A growing number of photographers expect decent video from their compacts.

Casio EX-ZR800:

• Max video: Full HD 1920x1080 at 30 fps.
• Formats: MPEG-4, H.264.
• No external mic or headphone jacks.
• Sensor-shift stabilization aids video smoothness.
• Features timelapse recording and high-speed video modes (up to 1000 fps at minimal resolution).

Panasonic ZS1:

• Max video: VGA resolution (640x480) at 30 fps.
• Format: Motion JPEG.
• No 1080p video.
• No stabilization specifics mentioned.

It’s no contest here. The Casio EX-ZR800 offers modern, crisp Full HD video with efficient compression and stabilization, suitable for casual video work or social media content. While not a professional video rig, it can shoot slow-motion sequences that are fun and creative.

The Panasonic’s video capability is basic, with low resolution and dated codec that limit usability beyond quick snapshot clips.

Battery Life and Storage: Keep Shooting Longer

Shooting day trips or travel adventures requires a dependable camera on battery life and convenient memory storage.

• Casio EX-ZR800: Rated for 470 shots per charge using a proprietary NP-130 battery. Supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.
• Panasonic ZS1: Battery life unspecified (likely around 200-250 shots typical for era). Supports SD, MMC, and SDHC cards.

In real-world usage, Casio’s battery comfortably pushes through a full day’s shoot, particularly if you minimize flash and Wi-Fi (which it doesn’t have, fortunately). The Panasonic demands more frequent recharge or spare batteries.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Can They Handle the Elements?

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, waterproofing, or robust ruggedness. Both are best kept dry and handled with care during inclement weather.

If your shooting involves travel to unpredictable climates, investing in a protective case or rain cover is advisable irrespective of choice here.

Real-World Photography Applications

Portraits: How They Handle Skin Tones and Subject Detection

The Casio’s higher resolution sensor and superior face detection system help deliver better skin tone reproduction and sharp portraits. Its limited bokeh due to small sensor size is expected, but wider apertures and optical zoom allow some subject isolation.

The Panasonic lags in autofocus speed and resolution but provides decent color reproduction where light is good. Manual focus is absent here, hampering creative control.

Winner: Casio EX-ZR800

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Detail

Superzoom compacts obviously don’t rival larger-sensor cameras here, but sharper wide-angle shots come from the Casio’s 16MP sensor. Landscapes benefit from its higher resolution and wider ISO range. The Panasonic’s slower sensor and lower pixel count make images look softer on large prints.

Neither camera offers weather sealing, so be mindful shooting outdoors in tough conditions.

Winner: Casio EX-ZR800

Wildlife and Sports: Speed, Tracking, and Reach

The Casio’s longer telephoto range (450mm equiv.) shines for wildlife, and image stabilization helps handheld reach. However, slow AF and a modest 3fps burst limit capturing peak action. Panasonic’s shorter zoom and sluggish AF make it less ideal here.

Neither camera supports modern tracking or animal eye detection, so enthusiasts seeking serious wildlife or sports photography should consider higher-tier models.

Winner: Casio EX-ZR800 (marginally)

Street Photography: Discretion and Speed

With no electronic viewfinder and conspicuous zoom barrels, neither camera is a stealth ninja here. The Casio’s slightly faster controls help capture spontaneous moments but bigger zoom can draw attention.

Panasonic is slightly smaller, but dim LCD and slower autofocus hurt spontaneity.

Winner: Casio EX-ZR800

Macro Photography: Close Focus and Detail

Both cameras offer macro capabilities, with Panasonic’s 3cm closer focusing distance an advantage. The Casio’s sharper sensor makes macro details pop better, but working distance is slightly longer.

Optical image stabilization on Panasonic can aid handheld macro shots, but Casio’s sensor-shift stabilizer performs well too.

Winner: Tie

Night and Astro Photography

Small sensors with limited ISO range struggle with low light and astro scenarios. The Casio’s ISO 3200 cap and sensor technology give it an edge but still introduce grain at high ISO settings.

Panasonic’s lack of high ISO and slower zoom aperture make night shots challenging.

Neither supports long exposure modes natively, so patience and tripods are necessary.

Winner: Casio EX-ZR800

Travel Photography: Versatility and Convenience

Travelers value compactness, battery life, zoom reach, and reliability. The Casio balances these with extensive focal length, better battery endurance, and sharpness.

Panasonic’s older design and limited video resolution feel dated here. Still, its slightly smaller footprint may suit minimalist packers.

Winner: Casio EX-ZR800

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

Shooting in RAW is standard for professionals, but neither camera supports RAW capture, a significant limitation. File format options are limited to JPEG or Motion JPEG video, which reduces post-processing flexibility.

Connectivity is basic - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS on either. USB 2.0 provides standard data transfer.

Build quality is consumer-level, so these models serve best as casual or backup cameras rather than professional mainstays.

Build Quality and Miscellaneous Features

Neither camera includes weather sealing or ruggedization, which is expected in this class.

The Casio has a more modern processor (EXILIM Engine HS 3) boosting startup and shot-to-shot speed.

The Panasonic’s shutter speed range starts from a lower minimum of 60s, advantageous for long exposures, while Casio maxes out at 4 seconds minimum shutter speed for those wanting slow exposures.

Price and Value Analysis

At current price points, the Casio EX-ZR800 runs around $429, while the Panasonic ZS1, being an older model, is often found at discounted or secondhand prices (often below $200). The value depends on your budget and priorities:

• If image quality, video, and zoom reach matter, investing in Casio’s newer tech pays off.
• If entry cost and ultra-compact size tip the scale, Panasonic provides a budget route with basic features.

Quick Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Camera	Strengths	Weaknesses
Casio EX-ZR800	Higher resolution 16MP CMOS sensor, extended 18x zoom, full HD video, better battery, manual controls	No EVF, limited ISO ceiling, no RAW, bulkier than ZS1
Panasonic ZS1	Smaller footprint, longer shutter speed range, decent optical stabilization, closer macro focusing	Lower resolution 10MP CCD sensor, limited video (VGA only), no manual exposure modes, older LCD

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

• Get the Casio EX-ZR800 if: You want the best image quality in this small sensor superzoom niche with versatile zoom range and full HD video. It’s well suited for casual wildlife, travel enthusiasts, vloggers, and those needing manual controls without a DSLR weight. Also great for those who want more bang for their buck in a compact form.

• Consider the Panasonic ZS1 if: You are a strict cheapskate on a tight budget, need a highly pocketable snapshot camera, are content with basic photo/video needs, and prioritize simple point-and-shoot operation. May appeal to beginner photographers who want some zoom flexibility without stepping up to new tech.

Final Thoughts: Practical Advice from a Hands-On Tester

Both cameras represent technology of their time but cater to different users. The Casio EX-ZR800 leans more toward enthusiasts craving better image quality, zoom length, and the ability to take control over exposure. Its better sensor, sharper lens, and advanced video features make it the more compelling choice if you can stretch your budget.

The Panasonic ZS1 is a competent compact for entry-level users or those wanting a simple “point-and-zoom” for casual holiday photos with less fuss. However, its technical limitations and dated interface mean you’ll quickly feel the pinch if you want more creative flexibility or higher image quality.

Technical Benchmark Recap and Testing Methodology

My evaluation involved:

• Shooting standardized test targets and real-world scenes in controlled lighting to assess sharpness, dynamic range, distortion, and noise.
• Side-by-side autofocus speed tests using moving targets.
• Real-use scenarios: portrait sessions focusing on skin tone, macro flower close-ups, wildlife handheld long telephoto, and low-light dim interiors.
• Video comparisons under daylight and indoors with stabilization turned on/off.
• Measuring battery life in active usage cycles.
• Physical handling and button layout scrutinized during extended hand-on sessions.
• Image and video processed using identical workflows for unbiased comparison.

This hands-on approach ensures the insights are not mere spec reading but reflect what photographers will actually experience in the field.

In Conclusion:

The Casio EX-ZR800 emerges as the wiser investment for photography enthusiasts seeking small-sensor portability without sacrificing zoom reach and image quality, especially given its strong video capabilities and manual modes.

The Panasonic ZS1 remains an option for absolute budget leaners or collectors wanting a lightweight superzoom with acceptable snapshots but leaves much to be desired in image fidelity and shooting flexibility.

If you’re serious about your photography and demand a compact that punches above its weight, Casio’s offering is my recommendation. For casual users or backup purposes, Panasonic’s older ZS1 may still serve - but consider hunting for a used EX-ZR800 before settling.

Happy shooting - and remember, your next camera should free your creativity, not chain you to menus or disappointing files!

If you found this comparison insightful, check out my other reviews where I test and dissect cameras across categories like mirrorless, DSLRs, and action cams - helping you make savvy photo gear choices every time.