Nikon P7700 vs Panasonic SZ8

Here is a extended assessment of the Nikon P7700 versus Panasonic SZ8, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a big gap between the resolutions of the P7700 (12MP) and SZ8 (16MP) and the P7700 (1/1.7") and SZ8 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

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The P7700 was introduced 7 months before the SZ8 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summary of how the P7700 scores against the SZ8 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix P7700 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon P7700 Gallery and Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Nikon P7700 enjoys outer measurements of 119mm x 73mm x 50mm (4.7" x 2.9" x 2.0") having a weight of 392 grams (0.86 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ8 has measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Nikon P7700 versus Panasonic SZ8 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using during that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the P7700 compared to the SZ8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the P7700 and SZ8 is 82 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to envision the contrast between sensor sizing just by going over a spec sheet. The graphic here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the P7700 and SZ8.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The P7700 having a larger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic SZ8 will deliver more detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images a little more aggressively. The older P7700 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.