Nikon P80 vs Panasonic ZS7

Following is a detailed assessment of the Nikon P80 and Panasonic ZS7, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the P80 (10MP) and the ZS7 (12MP) is relatively similar and both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The P80 was revealed 3 years prior to the ZS7 which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Nikon P80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS7 being a Compact camera.

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the P80 grades against the ZS7 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix P80 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7. The full galleries are provided at Nikon P80 Gallery & Panasonic ZS7 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and measurements. The Nikon P80 enjoys outer 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) while the Panasonic ZS7 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs).

Check the Nikon P80 and Panasonic ZS7 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the P80 against the ZS7.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the P80 and ZS7 is 75 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizes merely by going over specifications. The pic underneath should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the P80 and ZS7.

Plainly, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic ZS7 to offer you extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged P80 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.