Nikon S9700 vs Panasonic LZ40

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Nikon S9700 and Panasonic LZ40, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the S9700 (16MP) and the LZ40 (20MP) is pretty similar and they use the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The S9700 was introduced 2 months after the LZ40 which means that they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon S9700 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic LZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick summary of how the S9700 grades versus the LZ40 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S9700 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon S9700 Gallery & Panasonic LZ40 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera often, you have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Nikon S9700 enjoys outside dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") and a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Panasonic LZ40 has proportions of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") along with a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon S9700 and Panasonic LZ40 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have at that moment. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the S9700 versus the LZ40.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the S9700 and LZ40 is 90 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes purely by reviewing a spec sheet. The image below will help give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S9700 and LZ40.

As you can see, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You can expect the Panasonic LZ40 to deliver more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively.