Nikon L120 vs Panasonic ZS30

Below is a extensive comparison of the Nikon L120 versus Panasonic ZS30, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the L120 (14MP) and ZS30 (18MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The L120 was released 23 months earlier than the ZS30 making them a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a in depth comparison, here is a quick summation of how the L120 scores versus the ZS30 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix L120 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The complete galleries are provided at Nikon L120 Gallery and Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and measurements. The Nikon L120 provides external measurements of 110mm x 77mm x 78mm (4.3" x 3.0" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 431 grams (0.95 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS30 has proportions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Check the Nikon L120 versus Panasonic ZS30 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the L120 versus the ZS30.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the L120 and ZS30 is 75 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to imagine the difference between sensor measurements simply by checking a spec sheet. The graphic here may offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the L120 and ZS30.

Clearly, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS30 to resolve extra detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop pics more aggressively. The older L120 is going to be behind in sensor tech.