Nikon S30 vs Panasonic FX580

Below is a complete analysis of the Nikon S30 versus Panasonic FX580, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the S30 (10MP) and the FX580 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the S30 (1/3") and FX580 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizing.

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The S30 was released 3 years later than the FX580 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief summary of how the S30 matches up versus the FX580 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S30 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX580. The complete galleries are available at Nikon S30 Gallery and Panasonic FX580 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera often, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S30 enjoys outside dimensions of 102mm x 65mm x 40mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.6") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FX580 has dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

See the Nikon S30 versus Panasonic FX580 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose at the time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the S30 compared to the FX580.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the S30 and FX580 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to imagine the gap in sensor measurements just by checking out specifications. The photograph below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the S30 and FX580.

To sum up, both of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The S30 because of its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic FX580 will show greater detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots more aggressively. The more modern S30 should have a benefit in sensor technology.