Kodak M381 vs Panasonic ZS40

On this page, we will be evaluating the Kodak M381 and Panasonic ZS40, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Kodak and Panasonic. There is a substantial difference among the sensor resolutions of the M381 (12MP) and ZS40 (18MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The M381 was brought out 5 years prior to the ZS40 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Kodak M381 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the M381 scores versus the ZS40 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Kodak EasyShare M381 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The entire galleries are provided at Kodak M381 Gallery & Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera, you'll need to factor its weight and size. The Kodak M381 features outer dimensions of 101mm x 60mm x 20mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 0.8") with a weight of 153 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS40 has specifications of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Look at the Kodak M381 and Panasonic ZS40 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the M381 against the ZS40.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the M381 and ZS40 is 95 and 90 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to picture the gap in sensor sizes simply by seeing technical specs. The picture below will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the M381 and ZS40.

As you have seen, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You can expect the Panasonic ZS40 to show extra detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged M381 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.