Nikon L19 vs Panasonic ZS15

In this article, we are matching up the Nikon L19 versus Panasonic ZS15, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a big gap among the sensor resolutions of the L19 (8MP) and ZS15 (12MP) and the L19 (1/2.5") and ZS15 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

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The L19 was introduced 4 years before the ZS15 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a thorough comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the L19 matches up versus the ZS15 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix L19 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The whole galleries are available at Nikon L19 Gallery and Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you'll need to factor its weight and measurements. The Nikon L19 offers external dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 29mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 130 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS15 has proportions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Compare the Nikon L19 versus Panasonic ZS15 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the L19 against the ZS15.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the L19 and ZS15 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizing purely by checking out a spec sheet. The graphic here might offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the L19 and ZS15.

Clearly, both the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The L19 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic ZS15 will produce more detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The older L19 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.