Kodak Z980 vs Panasonic LZ20

On this page, we will be analyzing the Kodak Z980 and Panasonic LZ20, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Kodak and Panasonic. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the Z980 (12MP) and LZ20 (16MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The Z980 was launched 4 years before the LZ20 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Kodak Z980 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summary of how the Z980 matches up vs the LZ20 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Kodak EasyShare Z980 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The complete galleries are viewable at Kodak Z980 Gallery and Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Kodak Z980 features external measurements of 124mm x 91mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 4.1") accompanied by a weight of 445 grams (0.98 lbs) while the Panasonic LZ20 has dimensions of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Contrast the Kodak Z980 and Panasonic LZ20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the Z980 vs the LZ20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the Z980 and LZ20 is 68 and 71 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to visualize the contrast between sensor measurements only by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the Z980 and LZ20.

Clearly, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic LZ20 to deliver more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older Z980 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.