Kodak M550 vs Panasonic ZS30

On this page, we will be comparing the Kodak M550 vs Panasonic ZS30, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Kodak and Panasonic. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the M550 (12MP) and ZS30 (18MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The M550 was revealed 4 years before the ZS30 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a complete comparison, here is a short overview of how the M550 scores versus the ZS30 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Kodak EasyShare M550 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The full galleries are available at Kodak M550 Gallery and Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Kodak M550 comes with outside measurements of 98mm x 58mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS30 has proportions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Kodak M550 vs Panasonic ZS30 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the M550 vs the ZS30.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the M550 and ZS30 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading through a spec sheet. The visual underneath might provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the M550 and ZS30.

Clearly, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Panasonic ZS30 to resolve greater detail because of its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots more aggressively. The older M550 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.