Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic SZ10

Below is a thorough review of the Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic SZ10, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Kodak and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the Z981 (14MP) and the SZ10 (16MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras have the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The Z981 was manufactured 5 years before the SZ10 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Kodak Z981 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ10 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the Z981 matches up versus the SZ10 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Kodak EasyShare Z981 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ10. The entire galleries are viewable at Kodak Z981 Gallery & Panasonic SZ10 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Kodak Z981 has outside dimensions of 124mm x 85mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.1") and a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ10 has measurements of 99mm x 60mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 177 grams (0.39 lbs).

Examine the Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic SZ10 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the Z981 against the SZ10.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the Z981 and SZ10 is 66 and 93 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements simply by looking at specifications. The graphic underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the Z981 and SZ10.

To sum up, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You can count on the Panasonic SZ10 to resolve extra detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The older Z981 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.