Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic FZ80

Following is a extensive analysis of the Kodak Z981 versus Panasonic FZ80, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Kodak and Panasonic. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the Z981 (14MP) and FZ80 (18MP) but they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The Z981 was unveiled 7 years earlier than the FZ80 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before getting in to a full comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the Z981 grades against the FZ80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Kodak EasyShare Z981 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80. The full galleries are available at Kodak Z981 Gallery and Panasonic FZ80 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and proportions. The Kodak Z981 enjoys outer measurements of 124mm x 85mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.1") and a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ80 has measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") and a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs).

Check out the Kodak Z981 versus Panasonic FZ80 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the Z981 versus the FZ80.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the Z981 and FZ80 is 66 and 63 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at technical specs. The image here will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the Z981 and FZ80.

As you can tell, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic FZ80 to resolve extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged Z981 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.