Nikon L21 vs Panasonic ZS1

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Nikon L21 versus Panasonic ZS1, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the L21 (8MP) and the ZS1 (10MP) is pretty close but the L21 (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") use totally different sensor size.

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

The L21 was released 9 months later than the ZS1 so they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the L21 scores against the ZS1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix L21 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon L21 Gallery & Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon L21 features exterior dimensions of 92mm x 67mm x 28mm (3.6" x 2.6" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 169 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS1 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Nikon L21 versus Panasonic ZS1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the L21 against the ZS1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the L21 and ZS1 is 93 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing purely by looking through technical specs. The photograph here should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the L21 and ZS1.

As you can tell, both the cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The L21 due to its bigger sensor will make getting shallower DOF simpler and the Panasonic ZS1 will result in more detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures much more aggressively. The fresher L21 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.