Nikon S630 vs Panasonic SZ1

In this article, we will be matching up the Nikon S630 and Panasonic SZ1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap among the image resolutions of the S630 (12MP) and SZ1 (16MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The S630 was launched 3 years prior to the SZ1 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the S630 grades against the SZ1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S630 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon S630 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon S630 provides outside measurements of 97mm x 58mm x 26mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 140 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Compare the Nikon S630 and Panasonic SZ1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the S630 vs the SZ1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S630 and SZ1 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to imagine the gap in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The visual here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the S630 and SZ1.

As you can see, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You can count on the Panasonic SZ1 to provide extra detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older S630 will be behind in sensor technology.