Nikon S8100 vs Panasonic ZS30

Following is a extensive assessment of the Nikon S8100 versus Panasonic ZS30, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a huge gap among the resolutions of the S8100 (12MP) and ZS30 (18MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The S8100 was launched 3 years earlier than the ZS30 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a concise view of how the S8100 grades vs the ZS30 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix S8100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The complete galleries are available at Nikon S8100 Gallery and Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera, you should factor in its weight and size. The Nikon S8100 comes with exterior dimensions of 104mm x 60mm x 30mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS30 has specifications of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Nikon S8100 versus Panasonic ZS30 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the S8100 and the ZS30.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S8100 and ZS30 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor sizes only by viewing a spec sheet. The picture underneath may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the S8100 and ZS30.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS30 to provide you with more detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The more aged S8100 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.