Nikon P510 vs Panasonic ZS1

Below, we will be evaluating the Nikon P510 and Panasonic ZS1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the P510 (16MP) and ZS1 (10MP) and the P510 (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The P510 was announced 3 years later than the ZS1 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Nikon P510 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before going through a detailed comparison, below is a short overview of how the P510 grades vs the ZS1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix P510 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon P510 Gallery and Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Nikon P510 features external dimensions of 120mm x 83mm x 102mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 4.0") along with a weight of 555 grams (1.22 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS1 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Look at the Nikon P510 and Panasonic ZS1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the P510 compared to the ZS1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the P510 and ZS1 is 66 and 91 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing just by researching specifications. The visual below should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the P510 and ZS1.

To sum up, each of the cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The P510 using its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field easier and the Nikon P510 will result in more detail with its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots much more aggressively. The newer P510 provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.