Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic ZS1

On this page, we are analyzing the Kodak Z981 and Panasonic ZS1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Kodak and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the Z981 (14MP) and ZS1 (10MP) and the Z981 (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") have different sensor dimensions.

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The Z981 was introduced 14 months later than the ZS1 making them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras have different body design with the Kodak Z981 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the Z981 scores versus the ZS1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Kodak EasyShare Z981 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The whole galleries are provided at Kodak Z981 Gallery & Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and measurements. The Kodak Z981 offers external measurements of 124mm x 85mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.1") accompanied by a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS1 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Examine the Kodak Z981 and Panasonic ZS1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the Z981 versus the ZS1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the Z981 and ZS1 is 66 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing purely by seeing technical specs. The graphic underneath should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the Z981 and ZS1.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The Z981 having a larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Kodak Z981 will produce extra detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The newer Z981 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.