Nikon 1 J1 vs Panasonic ZS8

Let's look closer at the Nikon 1 J1 and Panasonic ZS8, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Nikon and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the 1 J1 (10MP) and ZS8 (14MP) and the 1 J1 (1") and ZS8 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J1 was unveiled 7 months after the ZS8 which means that they are of a similar generation. The two cameras come with different body type with the Nikon 1 J1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick view of how the 1 J1 scores against the ZS8 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 J1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J1 has got physical measurements of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 234 grams (0.52 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS8 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Examine the Nikon 1 J1 and Panasonic ZS8 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the 1 J1 vs the ZS8.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J1 and ZS8 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions just by reading technical specs. The image below may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J1 and ZS8.

As you have seen, both cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 1 J1 with its larger sensor will make shooting bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic ZS8 will offer you extra detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images much more aggressively. The fresher 1 J1 will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.