Nikon AW130 vs Panasonic ZS30

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Nikon AW130 and Panasonic ZS30, former is a Waterproof while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the AW130 (16MP) and the ZS30 (18MP) is fairly well matched and they use the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The AW130 was brought out 2 years after the ZS30 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple overview of how the AW130 scores vs the ZS30 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix AW130 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The entire galleries are provided at Nikon AW130 Gallery & Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

If you're intending to travel with your camera often, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon AW130 offers outside dimensions of 110mm x 66mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.1") with a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS30 has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon AW130 and Panasonic ZS30 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have at the time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the AW130 compared to the ZS30.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the AW130 and ZS30 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to see the contrast between sensor dimensions only by looking at specs. The picture here might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the AW130 and ZS30.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You can anticipate the Panasonic ZS30 to give you greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The younger AW130 is going to have a benefit in sensor tech.