Nikon L840 vs Panasonic SZ8

In this article, we are contrasting the Nikon L840 vs Panasonic SZ8, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the L840 (16MP) and the SZ8 (16MP) is fairly comparable and they come with the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The L840 was revealed 14 months after the SZ8 making the cameras a generation away from one another. Both cameras offer different body type with the Nikon L840 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick overview of how the L840 grades vs the SZ8 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix L840 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The full galleries are available at Nikon L840 Gallery & Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera often, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon L840 provides physical dimensions of 114mm x 89mm x 96mm (4.5" x 3.5" x 3.8") with a weight of 538 grams (1.19 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ8 has measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Nikon L840 vs Panasonic SZ8 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the L840 compared to the SZ8.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the L840 and SZ8 is 67 and 94 respectively.

Normally, its tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizes only by going through a spec sheet. The picture below will help provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the L840 and SZ8.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the identical megapixels and you can expect comparable quality of photographs although you have to take the launch date of the cameras into account. The more modern L840 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.