Nikon P80 vs Panasonic ZS20

In this article, we will be analyzing the Nikon P80 versus Panasonic ZS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the P80 (10MP) and ZS20 (14MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The P80 was introduced 4 years prior to the ZS20 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon P80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a full comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the P80 scores against the ZS20 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix P80 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon P80 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and volume. The Nikon P80 has got physical dimensions of 110mm x 79mm x 78mm (4.3" x 3.1" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS20 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Nikon P80 versus Panasonic ZS20 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the P80 compared to the ZS20.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the P80 and ZS20 is 75 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor measurements merely by seeing specifications. The photograph below may give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the P80 and ZS20.

Plainly, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic ZS20 to provide extra detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older P80 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.