Nikon B500 vs Panasonic ZS8

In this article, we are analyzing the Nikon B500 and Panasonic ZS8, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the B500 (16MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they possess the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The B500 was unveiled 4 years later than the ZS8 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Nikon B500 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick view of how the B500 grades vs the ZS8 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix B500 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon B500 Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Nikon B500 features exterior measurements of 114mm x 78mm x 95mm (4.5" x 3.1" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 541 grams (1.19 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS8 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon B500 and Panasonic ZS8 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have at the time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the B500 against the ZS8.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the B500 and ZS8 is 68 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to visualise the gap in sensor measurements only by checking out a spec sheet. The visual underneath may offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the B500 and ZS8.

As you can see, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Nikon B500 to provide greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The newer B500 will have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.