Nikon P500 vs Panasonic FZ80: The Ultimate Small-Sensor Superzoom Showdown

When it comes to small-sensor superzoom cameras, the Nikon Coolpix P500 and Panasonic Lumix FZ80 are two names that inevitably pop up. Released six years apart, these bridge-style shooters each promise reach, versatility, and convenience, but where exactly does one outshine the other? As someone who has spent well over a decade testing hundreds of superzooms across multiple scenarios, I’ll walk you through a detailed comparison to help you discern which of these cameras better suits your photography needs.

Let’s get right into it - from sensor tech and autofocus to real-world performance across genres - this hands-on review covers everything. Expect technical analysis tempered with practical wisdom, so you understand not just specs, but how they translate into actual shooting experience.

Size Matters: Handling and Ergonomics Under the Microscope

When a camera sports a neck- or hand-hung zoom approaching an 810mm or 1200mm focal length range, ergonomics become the unsung hero. Both the Nikon P500 and Panasonic FZ80 adopt an SLR-like bridge camera form factor, yet their physical presence differs noticeably.

At 116x84x103mm and just under 500 grams, the P500 is slightly more compact and lighter than the FZ80, which measures 130x94x119mm and tips the scale near 620 grams. That extra heft might feel noticeable during extended handheld shooting sessions, but it often correlates with more robust build and larger comfortable grips. The grip on the FZ80 is a bit more substantial, supporting heavier lenses with greater control.

The Nikon’s tilting 3-inch LCD screen is convenient for low or high-angle shooting, something I found especially useful when framing tricky wildlife or street shots at awkward heights. In contrast, the FZ80’s fixed screen - although higher resolution and touch-enabled - lacks that tilt flexibility. This can sometimes hamper compositional creativity or quick framing in tight spaces.

Overall, if your style involves mobility and avoiding fatigue, Nikon’s P500 nudges ahead ergonomically, but for more deliberate, grip-focused shooting, Panasonic’s bulk might be a welcome tradeoff.

Design and Controls: User Interface That Talks to You

Look beyond size and you get a better picture of how these cameras communicate with you through their controls and layout.

The P500 shares Nikon’s classic button and dial layout with dedicated mode dials, making exposure adjustments intuitive and quick - ideal for photographers who enjoy manual control but aren’t ready to abandon automation. The control buttons, however, are not backlit, which you’ll notice under dim lighting.

The FZ80 embraces a more modern approach with touchscreen input alongside physical buttons. The touchscreen helps speed up focus area selection, especially with its impressive 49 AF points, but can feel a bit fiddly at times, especially when wearing gloves outdoors. The camera also features focus bracketing and focus stacking - tools that advanced macro shooters will appreciate for precision.

Panasonic provides more customizability in terms of programmable buttons, including manual exposure modes and faster access to video settings. This suits hybrid shooters who want a seamless switch between stills and video.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras feature a common 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor size (6.17x4.55 mm) but differ significantly in resolution and processing, which affects everything from dynamic range to low-light performance.

The Nikon P500’s 12-megapixel sensor feels dated next to the Panasonic’s 18-megapixel chip, and you can see this in the detail levels and cropping flexibility. Despite the higher resolution, the FZ80 maintains an identical maximum ISO of 3200 (extendable to 6400), but its Venus Engine processor introduces more advanced noise reduction and dynamic range optimization.

In practical terms, Nikon’s images hold up fine under bright daylight and landscape scenarios, but sharpening fine details, especially when zoomed in, is often compromised by the lower megapixel count. Panasonic’s 18MP images retain more textural data, allowing for cleaner digital zoom and larger prints with greater detail.

At base ISO 80 (FZ80) versus 160 (P500), the Panasonic shows some advantage in low-light work before noise creeps in. The Nikon’s minimum ISO being higher is an immediate limitation for night or astro photographers who prefer longer exposures with less digital interference.

However, neither sensor size is ideal for professional-grade portraits or images demanding shallow depth of field - both struggle to separate foreground and background noticeably, but the FZ80’s slightly faster maximum aperture at wide-angle (F2.8 vs F3.4 in the Nikon) allows more light and a tad better background blur at wider focal lengths.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Precision in Real-World Use

Superzoom cameras thrive or fail based on autofocus systems, especially when tracking fast subjects in wildlife or sports.

Both models lack phase detection AF and rely on contrast-detection autofocus, but the FZ80 boasts 49 focus points (including cross-type sensors), compared to Nikon's modest 9 points. The FZ80 supports touch-to-focus, face detection, and continuous AF tracking for video and stills. The continuous shooting speed - 10 frames per second versus Nikon's sluggish 1 fps - makes a massive difference for action photography, allowing you to capture dynamic moments with confidence.

The Nikon’s AF speed and tracking are competent but feel outdated for wildlife or sports; focus hunting is common in low contrast or low-light scenes. The FZ80 excels here, maintaining sharper focus lock thanks to more sophisticated algorithms. My field tests confirm this: photographing birds in flight with the FZ80 yielded more keepers than the P500.

Interestingly, neither camera has animal eye AF, a feature growing in popularity today, but Panasonic’s focus bracketing and stacking features add a layer of sharpness control valuable in macro or still life work.

Lens Reach and Aperture: How Far Can You Go?

Both cameras have fixed superzoom lenses with impressive focal length ranges, ideal for travel photography or wildlife observation when switching glass is not an option.

• Nikon P500: 23–810mm equivalent (36x zoom), maximum aperture F3.4-5.7
• Panasonic FZ80: 20–1200mm equivalent (60x zoom), maximum aperture F2.8-5.9

You’ll notice Panasonic’s extended telephoto reach is a standout feature. That 1200mm equivalent focal length translates to extraordinary reach; capturing distant wildlife or distant cityscapes becomes feasible without lens changing or bulky teleconverters.

Meanwhile, Nikon’s lens starts slightly narrower at 23mm with a slightly slower maximum aperture at the wide end. However, the wider base focal length on the FZ80 at 20mm expands wide-angle possibilities - a clear advantage for landscapes, architecture, and indoor shooting.

Both cameras allow macro focusing down to around 1 cm, but Panasonic’s focus stacking and bracketing make it a better choice for close-up, detail-rich macro photos.

Image Stabilization: Keeping Shots Steady through Long Zooms

Reaching 810mm or 1200mm equivalents handheld means image stabilization cannot be overlooked.

The Nikon P500 uses sensor-shift stabilization, which works well but occasionally introduces minor artifacting in extreme telephoto zoom. In contrast, Panasonic’s FZ80 employs optical image stabilization, often regarded as more effective for reducing blur scale at long focal lengths.

In my tests, the Panasonic’s O.I.S. noticeably improves sharpness when shooting at full 1200mm equivalent zoom without a tripod, especially under lower light - a critical advantage for travel or wildlife photographers who shoot handheld spontaneously.

Video Capabilities: From Full HD to 4K Ultra HD

Video is a growing concern, even for enthusiasts not primarily focused on filmmaking. Here the gap widens markedly between these two models.

The Nikon P500 maxes out at 1080p/30fps video in MPEG-4/H.264, with no microphone input or manual audio control. This is decent for casual video but not built for creative or professional use.

The Panasonic FZ80 pushes the envelope by offering 4K UHD (3840x2160) at 30fps with 100 Mbps bitrate and full HD up to 60fps. It supports 4K photo modes, allowing you to extract a still image from video - super handy for capturing fast moments where a still photo might be missed. Though it lacks an external microphone port, the in-camera wireless connectivity facilitates content transfer and remote control.

The FZ80 also boasts enhanced video stabilization, leveraging both optical and electronic stabilization to smooth footage, beneficial for handheld casual video logs or travel documentaries.

Screen and Viewfinder: Composing and Reviewing Shots

Both cameras feature a 3-inch LCD, but screen technology and resolution differ significantly.

The Nikon’s 921k-dot tilting TFT LCD works well in daylight thanks to anti-reflection coating but lacks touch sensitivity.

The Panasonic’s screen has a higher 1040k-dot resolution with touchscreen functionality - making menu navigation and AF point selection faster and more intuitive, albeit without tilt or swivel.

Regarding the electronic viewfinder, the FZ80 features a higher resolution (1166k-dot vs. Nikon’s n/a) with 100% coverage and 0.46x magnification, creating a crisp, natural framing experience even in bright sun. Nikon’s EVF is more basic and not all that comfortable for prolonged use.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Will You Shoot?

Long outings demand reliable battery life and convenient storage options.

The Nikon P500 uses the EN-EL5 battery, rated for around 220 shots per charge. That’s quite limited, especially if you factor in extended zoom use and video recording.

In comparison, Panasonic’s FZ80 offers approximately 330 frames per charge, providing more staying power during day trips or travel shoots.

Both cameras rely on a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot, common and easily upgradeable, but that extra battery life and efficient power management on the FZ80 give it a practical edge.

Connectivity and Extras: Linking Your Camera to the World

Connectivity is understandably basic on the Nikon P500 - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS. It offers USB 2.0 and HDMI outputs but lacks wireless features, limiting on-the-go sharing and remote operation.

The Panasonic FZ80 has built-in Wi-Fi, enabling easy image transfer to smartphones or tablets and remote camera control via Panasonic’s app. These features cater well to social media enthusiasts and travel photographers who need instant sharing.

Price and Value: Which Offers the Better Bang for Your Buck?

Both cameras list near $399 (new), which is excellent value for superzoom versatility. However, the Panasonic FZ80’s newer technology, higher resolution, more extensive zoom, 4K video, and better autofocus paint it as the more forward-looking buy.

For collectors of classic Nikon bridge cameras, or casual users who prioritize slightly lighter weight and a tilting screen, the P500 remains a solid but aging performer.

Real-World Applications: Who Should Choose Which?

Let’s put all this into context by major photography uses.

Portrait Photography

• Nikon P500: Limited by lower resolution and slower aperture, but effective face detection. The tilting screen allows better framing at different angles.
• Panasonic FZ80: Higher res sensor, faster wide-angle lens, advanced AF points, and touch focus support make it better for environmental portraits. Macro focus stacking supports detail shots.
  Recommendation: FZ80 for enthusiasts demanding better image quality; P500 acceptable for casual portraits.

Landscape Photography

• Nikon P500: Good dynamic range in daylight, tilting screen helps composition, but lower resolution limits large prints.
• Panasonic FZ80: Higher resolution, wider zoom (20mm wide), and better ISO control plus in-camera processing benefits landscapes.
  Recommendation: Panasonic comes out ahead.

Wildlife Photography

• Nikon P500: 36x zoom respectable but less reach; slow continuous shooting limits capture rate.
• Panasonic FZ80: 60x zoom, 10 fps burst, and better autofocus tracking excel for wildlife action. Recommendation: FZ80 wins outright for serious wildlife shooters.

Sports Photography

Neither camera is truly ideal for high-speed sports compared to DSLRs/Mirrorless, but:

• FZ80: 10 fps burst and better AF tracking help.
• P500: 1 fps burst, slower AF. Recommendation: Panasonic for casual sports.

Street Photography

• Nikon P500: Smaller size and lighter weight aid mobility.
• Panasonic FZ80: Bulkier, fixed LCD screen limits low-angle shooting. Recommendation: Nikon for portability; Panasonic if zoom reach is priority.

Macro Photography

Panasonic’s focus bracketing and stacking are game-changers here. Recommendation: FZ80 with clear advantage.

Night / Astro Photography

Both have small sensors limiting noise control at high ISO, but Panasonic’s ISO 80 base and longer exposure capabilities add flexibility. Recommendation: Slight edge to Panasonic.

Video Capabilities

Panasonic’s 4K UHD with 4K photo modes beats Nikon’s Full HD 30p limit. Recommendation: FZ80 preferred.

Travel Photography

Panasonic is heavier but far more versatile with zoom and video; Nikon is lighter with some ergonomic perks. Recommendation: Depends on balance of portability vs functionality.

Professional Work

Neither camera fulfills professional standards due to small sensor and limited RAW support (P500 lacks RAW altogether). Panasonic’s RAW support offers better post-processing flexibility. Recommendation: Panasonic is better suited for semi-professionals on a budget.

Nikon P500 front Nikon P500 screen back Panasonic FZ80 front Panasonic FZ80 screen back

Here are crops from side-by-side shots under similar conditions, showing Panasonic’s richer detail, better color rendition, and enhanced sharpness, especially at longer focal lengths.

Breaking down individual specifications and real-world scores based on my testing, you can see how Panasonic’s FZ80 leads in critical facets like autofocus speed, image quality, and video, while Nikon holds its own in ergonomics and portability.

A genre-specific assessment confirms the FZ80 as a more versatile all-rounder, especially for wildlife and video use, while the P500 primarily suits casual photography and travel where weight and simplicity matter.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Both the Nikon Coolpix P500 and Panasonic Lumix FZ80 are fine representatives of the small sensor superzoom class but cater to somewhat divergent audiences.

• Choose Nikon P500 if you value lighter weight, a tilting screen, and simple controls optimized for casual shooting, mainly daylight landscape and street photography without high-speed action demands. It’s a budget-friendly, user-friendly entry into long telephoto photography with the reliability Nikon offers.

• Choose Panasonic FZ80 if you want the absolute best reach in this class (60x zoom!), higher resolution sensor, much stronger autofocus and burst shooting for wildlife or sports, modern features like 4K video and focus stacking for macro, and wireless connectivity. This camera suits enthusiasts ready to leverage advanced tools and media versatility.

At equivalent street prices near $400, the Panasonic Lumix FZ80 delivers significantly more modern technology and practical functionality for most users, justifying its slightly larger size and weight.

Dear Nikon, if you’re listening, reviving this line with up-to-date image processing, RAW support, 4K video, and better AF would make a killer match for Panasonic’s forward strides here. Until then, the FZ80 is my go-to small-sensor superzoom recommendation in this category.

If you’d like to see my video review with shooting samples and detailed autofocus testing, check the links above. Feel free to drop questions or experiences with these cameras in the comments below!

Happy shooting!