Fujifilm F500 EXR vs Panasonic ZS20

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Fujifilm F500 EXR and Panasonic ZS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors FujiFilm and Panasonic. The resolution of the Fujifilm F500 EXR (16MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is relatively comparable but the Fujifilm F500 EXR (1/2") and ZS20 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The Fujifilm F500 EXR was introduced 15 months before the ZS20 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short highlight of how the Fujifilm F500 EXR grades against the ZS20 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Fujifilm FinePix F500 EXR and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are provided at Fujifilm F500 EXR Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Fujifilm F500 EXR features exterior dimensions of 104mm x 63mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 215 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has dimensions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Take a look at the Fujifilm F500 EXR and Panasonic ZS20 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the Fujifilm F500 EXR compared to the ZS20.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the Fujifilm F500 EXR and ZS20 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizes merely by seeing technical specs. The picture below will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the Fujifilm F500 EXR and ZS20.

As you have seen, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The Fujifilm F500 EXR with its bigger sensor will make getting shallower DOF easier and the Fujifilm F500 EXR will provide more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged Fujifilm F500 EXR will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.