Nikon S6500 vs Panasonic ZS80

Below is a comprehensive assessment of the Nikon S6500 versus Panasonic ZS80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the S6500 (16MP) and the ZS80 (20MP) is relatively comparable and they use the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The S6500 was unveiled 6 years before the ZS80 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the S6500 grades vs the ZS80 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S6500 and Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80. The full galleries are provided at Nikon S6500 Gallery and Panasonic ZS80 Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera often, you need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S6500 offers outside dimensions of 95mm x 58mm x 26mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 1.0") along with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS80 has dimensions of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") and a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs).

Check out the Nikon S6500 versus Panasonic ZS80 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the S6500 versus the ZS80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the S6500 and ZS80 is 92 and 86 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to imagine the difference in sensor measurements merely by seeing a spec sheet. The visual below will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S6500 and ZS80.

Clearly, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic ZS80 to provide more detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The older S6500 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.