Nikon P500 vs Panasonic ZS15

On this page, we are matching up the Nikon P500 and Panasonic ZS15, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the P500 (12MP) and the ZS15 (12MP) is fairly close and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The P500 was unveiled 16 months prior to the ZS15 making them a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Nikon P500 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera.

Before getting into a thorough comparison, here is a concise summation of how the P500 scores versus the ZS15 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix P500 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon P500 Gallery and Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera often, you have to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon P500 has got exterior dimensions of 116mm x 84mm x 103mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 4.1") and a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS15 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon P500 and Panasonic ZS15 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have during that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the P500 compared to the ZS15.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the P500 and ZS15 is 67 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing only by viewing specs. The visual underneath will give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the P500 and ZS15.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same exact MP so you should expect comparable quality of pictures although you should always factor the release date of the cameras into account. The older P500 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.