Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic ZS15

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic ZS15, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Kodak and Panasonic. The image resolution of the Z981 (14MP) and the ZS15 (12MP) is pretty well matched and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The Z981 was manufactured 24 months earlier than the ZS15 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Kodak Z981 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the Z981 scores vs the ZS15 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Kodak EasyShare Z981 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The entire galleries are viewable at Kodak Z981 Gallery & Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Kodak Z981 provides exterior measurements of 124mm x 85mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.1") having a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS15 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Take a look at the Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic ZS15 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the Z981 vs the ZS15.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the Z981 and ZS15 is 66 and 92 respectively.

Often, it's hard to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions just by looking at technical specs. The picture below will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the Z981 and ZS15.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Kodak Z981 to give you greater detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged Z981 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.