Nikon L21 vs Pentax RZ18

Below is a in depth overview of the Nikon L21 vs Pentax RZ18, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Nikon and Pentax. There exists a significant gap among the image resolutions of the L21 (8MP) and RZ18 (16MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The L21 was announced 19 months earlier than the RZ18 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a concise summary of how the L21 grades versus the RZ18 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix L21 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are available at Nikon L21 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

If you're looking to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Nikon L21 provides external dimensions of 92mm x 67mm x 28mm (3.6" x 2.6" x 1.1") having a weight of 169 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Pentax RZ18 has measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

See the Nikon L21 vs Pentax RZ18 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have at the time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the L21 and the RZ18.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the L21 and RZ18 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements simply by checking out specifications. The graphic below will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the L21 and RZ18.

To sum up, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Pentax RZ18 to produce greater detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older L21 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.