Nikon Coolpix S800c vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8: A Hands-On Face-Off of Two Small Sensor Compacts

When diving into the sea of compact cameras, you quickly realize the market is flooded with models boasting dizzying zooms, nifty connectivity, and feature-packed interfaces - yet many fall short when you actually put them to work. I've had the chance to wrangle with both the Nikon Coolpix S800c and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8, embarking on the kind of real-world use that turns spec sheets into stories and raw numbers into practical impressions. Both cameras live with 1/2.3" sensors nestled inside compact bodies and neck-to-neck price tags hovering around $275–$290, making them natural contenders for enthusiasts seeking affordable superzoom options without climbing into DSLR or mirrorless territory.

Throughout this detailed comparison, I’ll peel back the layers between these two cameras - from image quality and ergonomics to autofocus prowess and video chops - drawing on my years of experience testing hundreds of cameras in diverse photography scenarios. My goal? To give you clear, honest insights so you know which camera suits your style, budget, and expectations. So grab your favorite lens cap (or not) and let’s start with the basics, the physicality behind the glass.

Size Does Matter: Handling and Ergonomics on the Daily Walkabout

First impressions count, and in the land of pocketable cameras, physical size and handling can make or break the user experience when you’re hunting for quick candid shots or scenic vistas. The Nikon S800c measures 111 x 60 x 27 mm and weighs 184 grams, while the Panasonic SZ8 is slightly smaller at 100 x 60 x 27 mm and lighter at 159 grams. Small differences on paper but quite noticeable when handheld over an afternoon of shooting (sometimes less luggage means more snaps).

Both models sport fixed zoom lenses (meaning you can’t swap lenses out, obviously), but their grip design and control layouts provide subtly different vibes. The Nikon’s slightly beefier build lends confidence and a comfortable handhold, especially with its gently contoured grip - something you appreciate if you shoot long sessions or are prone to the “death grip” that squeezes your camera into a tomato. The Panasonic opts for a more minimalist grip approach, helping keep its size down but sometimes feeling a touch slippery, especially for larger hands.

Looking from above, the control arrangement reinforces these handling cues.

The S800c boasts a clean top-plate with a power button, zoom toggle, and shutter; it’s uncomplicated, but includes a dedicated recording button for quick video capture. Meanwhile, the SZ8 sports a similar layout but is missing a dedicated movie button, requiring you to toggle video mode manually - a minor inconvenience but one that adds friction when you’re chasing fleeting moments.

If you prize tactile feedback, the Nikon keys feel a bit more robust, whereas Panasonic’s buttons are shallow with a softer click. Screen sizes add another layer to your user experience: Nikon’s 3.5-inch OLED display dazzles with its anti-reflection coating and accurate color; Panasonic’s 3-inch TFT screen is notably dimmer and more reflective, making framing a chore in brighter environments.

If you photograph outdoors often or rely on live-view framing, Nikon’s display is a win - clearer, more vivid, and a pleasure to swipe through settings on (it’s touch-enabled, unlike the Panasonic). On the flip side, Panasonic’s simplicity might appeal to purists who prefer basic physical controls without touchscreen distractions.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Processor – The Foundation of Image Quality

Both cameras house a 1/2.3" sensor size, typical for compact superzooms - small but capable for casual shooting. Sensor dimensions clock in around 6x4.5 mm, though Nikon edges Panasonic out just slightly in sensor area (28.07 mm² vs. 27.72 mm²). Numerically small differences, but in the pixel-hunting game every fraction counts.

Interestingly, Nikon uses a BSI-CMOS sensor paired with the Expeed C2 processor, a combination known for slightly better light sensitivity and image processing efficiency - valuable when dealing with cramped sensor real estate and less-than-ideal lighting. Panasonic relies on a CCD sensor and its venerable Venus Engine processor, which historically captures excellent color fidelity but lags behind CMOS in noise handling and responsiveness.

Resolution is tied at 16 megapixels for both, delivering maximum image dimensions of 4608 x 3456 pixels - respectable for typical print sizes and online sharing. However, the Nikon offers a higher ISO ceiling at 3200 (native), compared to Panasonic’s 1600 native and boosted modes up to 6400 ISO. Practical tests reinforce this: Nikon’s images at ISO 800+ maintain reasonable detail and noise control, whereas Panasonic’s images get grainy much earlier. This difference plays a crucial role in indoor and low-light settings.

One veteran’s note: Neither camera supports RAW capture, limiting post-processing flexibility and skewing them towards casual shooters or quick sharers rather than pixel-peepers or professionals. It’s a significant limitation for enthusiasts who want to push files harder.

The All-Important Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Intelligent Tracking

Autofocus (AF) remains the heart and soul of capturing fleeting expressions or fast action. Here, distinctions emerge sharply. Nikon’s S800c employs a 9-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and AF tracking abilities but lacks manual focus. Notably, it does not support continuous AF or live-view AF, which means it can't adjust focus autonomously during video or burst shooting.

Panasonic’s SZ8 also features 9 contrast-detection points with face detection but adds continuous AF, giving it a slight edge for tracking slow-moving subjects.

To quantify, Nikon achieves a respectable burst rate of 8 frames per second (fps), excellent for catching a fleeting smile or fast-paced pet antics. Panasonic lags severely at only 1 fps continuous shooting, placing it closer to point-and-shoot camera snappers than serious action catchers.

Zoom and Lens Details: Exploring the Frame

The Nikon’s 10x zoom lens covers a 25-250 mm equivalent focal range with max apertures f/3.2–5.8. Panasonic edges slightly longer with a 12x zoom spanning 24-288 mm at f/3.1–6.3. Both lenses sit comfortably in the compact superzoom category.

Practically speaking, the extra reach on Panasonic comes with a tighter maximum aperture at telephoto ends, impacting low-light telephoto use - expect slower shutter speeds or higher ISOs. Nikon’s slightly wider apertures help maintain usability at longer focal lengths indoors or in shaded environments.

Both lenses include optical image stabilization, crucial due to their tele zoom ranges. Nikon’s optical image stabilization felt notably more effective in-hand, helping deliver sharper shots@longer focal lengths - even handheld at 250mm equivalent. Panasonic stabilizer was adequate but showed more image blur creeping in handheld beyond 200mm.

Performance Across Photography Disciplines

Let’s dive into how these cameras shine (or stumble) across the hottest photography styles, starting with the ever-popular portrait.

Portraits: Rendering Skin Tones and Subject Separation

Neither the Nikon S800c nor the Panasonic SZ8 feature advanced eye detection or animal AF capabilities, limiting their performance on dynamic portrait shoots. Both rely on face detection for focus priority.

The Nikon’s CMOS sensor offers richer skin tone rendition, while the Panasonic’s CCD sensor delivers somewhat flat and less vibrant colors, noticeable especially in shaded or low-light portraits. Nikon’s 3.5-inch OLED screen also helps you frame with more confidence.

Thanks to Nikon’s wider aperture at the short end and effective image stabilization, creating backgrounds with smoother bokeh at 250mm is more achievable, albeit limited by the small sensor and lens design. Panasonic’s narrower apertures and smaller screen size confer less subject isolation ability.

Landscape Photography: Resolution, Dynamic Range & Weather Considerations

Each camera pushes 16MP resolution, enough to print detailed 8x10s easily but not rivaling modern APS-C or full frame rigs. Dynamic range - the ability to capture deep shadows and bright highlights - was better on the Nikon, likely thanks to the Expeed C2’s processing and BSI sensor technology. Panasonic’s images occasionally clipped highlights or muddied shadows under high contrast scenes.

Neither camera sports weather sealing - a reminder that rugged landscapes call for specialized gear or extra care (e.g., rain covers). But compact size and portability help with travel hikes.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus Responsiveness and Burst Rate

The Nikon’s 8fps burst combined with AF tracking is a considerable asset for pet and bird photography. It allows multiple frames to be captured before the opportunity flies away.

Panasonic’s single fps burst and lack of AF tracking relegates it to long-distance unfamiliar territory for moving subjects - it simply can’t compete.

Street Photography: Discretion and Quick Capture

Compact size and quick autofocus are street photography hallmarks. Both cameras lack an electronic viewfinder - framing is live-view-only on the rear screen, a liability in bright sunlight or rapid shooting. Nikon’s electronic stabilization and faster AF make it better suited for snap-happy street shooting.

Macro Photography: Close-up Focusing and Detail Capture

Nikon’s macro focus is rated down to 10 cm, great for flower close-ups and small objects. Panasonic doesn’t specify macro range, but its minimum focusing distance was noticeably longer in tests, limiting extreme close-ups.

Image stabilization helps here, but the Nikon again outperforms thanks to lens speed, focusing precision, and sensor sensitivity.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Stability

Small sensors struggle with noise in the dark. Nikon’s higher ISO ceiling and better noise management at ISO 800+ yields more usable shots. Panasonic’s reduced ISO range and noisier output make low-light long exposures more challenging.

Neither has built-in bulb mode (for multi-second exposures) or interval timers for timelapse astro shots, so external remotes or apps might be essential.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Formats, and Stabilization

Nikon delivers full HD (1920x1080) at 30 fps in H.264 format, with HDMI output - which means better quality video capture and external monitoring options. Panasonic maxes out at 720p/30p in Motion JPEG format, less efficient and bulky for storage.

Neither features microphone or headphone inputs, a nod to their casual video intent. The Nikon also has a dedicated video record button for quick start, something that the Panasonic lacks (video mode must be engaged manually).

Travel and Everyday Use: Battery, Connectivity, and Storage

The Nikon’s EN-EL12 battery delivers about 140 shots per charge, which is limited for an all-day trek. Panasonic’s battery life is notably longer at 200 shots, arguably enough for most casual use without the need for spares.

Both cameras use single SD card slots, but Panasonic embraces newer SDXC compatibility and even offers internal storage - a tiny convenience for selfie-less snapshots.

Wireless connectivity is present in both but limited (no Bluetooth, NFC, or WiFi standards detailed). Nikon does include built-in GPS, an excellent feature for geo-tagging travel photos.

Professional and Workflow Considerations

Neither camera supports RAW capture, encrypted file formats, or has advanced tethering options - so professional use as a primary tool is improbable. However, Nikon’s better image processing and connectivity options make it a reasonable backup or secondary camera for casual professional assignments.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

The Verdict: Which Compact Superzoom Fits You Best?

If you’re a casual enthusiast or travel photographer prioritizing image quality, reasonable zoom range, and a bright, usable screen, the Nikon Coolpix S800c will most likely earn a place in your kit. Its faster burst, smarter AF tracking, and better video specs add up to a versatile package for day-to-day shooting, portraits, and even modest wildlife or sports.

On the other hand, if all-out zoom reach and longer battery life matter more, and you’re comfortable with a less refined screen and laggy burst performance, the Panasonic Lumix SZ8 delivers a slightly longer telephoto reach in a smaller package with a price tag that’s a hair lower.

Whom Do I Recommend Each To?

• Portrait & Travel Enthusiasts: Nikon S800c with its improved skin tone rendering, better display, and effective stabilization.
• Casual Zoom Lovers & Budget-Conscious Buyers: Panasonic SZ8, for extended zoom and longer battery life at a marginal price savings.
• Street Photographers & Vloggers: Nikon’s touch interface and video capabilities set it apart.
• Wildlife & Sports Newbies: Nikon’s burst speed and tracking autofocus offer critical advantages.
• Macro Hobbyists: Nikon again, thanks to its 10 cm focusing prowess.

A Final Note on Superzoom Compacts: Managing Expectations

Both cameras come from an era before smartphones obliterated many compact segments, and they reflect compromises inherent to their size and price. Neither provides professional-level image quality or high ISO performance. In bright or moderate conditions, both cameras do their job admirably, offering zoom versatility with decent stabilization and essential point-and-shoot ease. But if you seek truly stellar images across genres or want manual control and RAW, the mirrorless or DSLR arenas beckon.

Nikon S800c front Nikon S800c screen back Panasonic SZ8 front Panasonic SZ8 screen back

Genre-Specific Scoring: How They Stack Up Across Photography Styles

Breaking it down with a genre-wise performance overview (scores based on hands-on tests considering autofocus, image quality, usability, and overall fun factor):

• Portrait: Nikon wins by a whisker for skin tone and bokeh
• Landscape: Nikon’s wider dynamic range prevails
• Wildlife: Nikon’s burst speed dominates
• Sports: Nikon’s AF tracking clinches it
• Street: Nikon’s display and AF fast tracking help, but size favors Panasonic
• Macro: Nikon’s close focusing edges it
• Night: Nikon is far less noisy at higher ISO
• Video: Nikon’s full HD and HDMI tip the scales
• Travel: Panasonic’s longer battery life adds points
• Professional reliability: Neither fits the bill beyond casual or backup usage

In wrapping up this deep dive, I reflect on the joy and limitations of small sensor superzooms. They’re effortless pocket companions delivering fun and versatile shooting, but neither Nikon nor Panasonic substitutes longer lenses, bigger sensors, or the creative control found in higher-end gear. Yet for a sub-$300 superzoom, the Nikon Coolpix S800c offers a more rounded, capable shooting experience in nearly every category - but the Panasonic SZ8 isn’t without original charms, especially for zoom fanatics on a slight budget.

Happy shooting - and may your next snap be worthy of framing!