Nikon L21 vs Panasonic ZS8

Its time to look a bit more closely at the Nikon L21 vs Panasonic ZS8, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a big gap between the sensor resolutions of the L21 (8MP) and ZS8 (14MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The L21 was unveiled 17 months before the ZS8 which makes them a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the L21 grades vs the ZS8 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix L21 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The full galleries are provided at Nikon L21 Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera, you have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Nikon L21 enjoys outside measurements of 92mm x 67mm x 28mm (3.6" x 2.6" x 1.1") along with a weight of 169 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS8 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Check out the Nikon L21 vs Panasonic ZS8 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the L21 versus the ZS8.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the L21 and ZS8 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to see the gap between sensor sizes purely by looking at a spec sheet. The picture below might give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the L21 and ZS8.

As you can see, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Panasonic ZS8 to resolve extra detail having an extra 6MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged L21 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.