Leica C vs Panasonic ZS8

Let's examine more in depth at the Leica C and Panasonic ZS8, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Leica and Panasonic. The resolution of the C (12MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is fairly comparable but the C (1/1.7") and ZS8 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor sizing.

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The C was brought out 2 years later than the ZS8 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summary of how the C scores vs the ZS8 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica C and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The entire galleries are provided at Leica C Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

For those who are going to lug around your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Leica C features physical measurements of 103mm x 63mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") with a weight of 195 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS8 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Contrast the Leica C and Panasonic ZS8 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at the time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the C versus the ZS8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the C and ZS8 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to see the gap in sensor measurements just by going through technical specs. The graphic underneath may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the C and ZS8.

As you have seen, both of those cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The C featuring a larger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic ZS8 will show more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more recent C is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.