Nikon P500 vs Panasonic ZS50

Here is a comprehensive assessment of the Nikon P500 versus Panasonic ZS50, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the P500 (12MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is pretty close and both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The P500 was brought out 4 years earlier than the ZS50 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Nikon P500 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS50 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a full comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the P500 grades vs the ZS50 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix P500 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The entire galleries are available at Nikon P500 Gallery and Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Nikon P500 enjoys outer measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 103mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 4.1") with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS50 has proportions of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check out the Nikon P500 versus Panasonic ZS50 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the P500 and the ZS50.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the P500 and ZS50 is 67 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to visualize the gap in sensor sizing only by viewing technical specs. The visual below will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the P500 and ZS50.

As you can tell, each of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the identical resolution and you should expect comparable quality of images however you have to take the release date of the cameras into account. The older P500 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.