Nikon S9900 vs Panasonic FZ80

Here, we are comparing the Nikon S9900 and Panasonic FZ80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the S9900 (16MP) and the FZ80 (18MP) is fairly close and both cameras boast the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S9900 was revealed 23 months prior to the FZ80 making them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras feature different body design with the Nikon S9900 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short overview of how the S9900 grades against the FZ80 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S9900 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80. The full galleries are available at Nikon S9900 Gallery and Panasonic FZ80 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Nikon S9900 comes with exterior dimensions of 112mm x 66mm x 40mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.6") with a weight of 289 grams (0.64 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ80 has specifications of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") along with a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs).

Look at the Nikon S9900 and Panasonic FZ80 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select at that moment. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the S9900 vs the FZ80.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the S9900 and FZ80 is 88 and 63 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to imagine the gap in sensor sizing merely by viewing technical specs. The graphic underneath may give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the S9900 and FZ80.

As you can tell, both of the cameras feature the identical sensor size but different MP. You should anticipate the Panasonic FZ80 to render greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images way more aggressively. The older S9900 will be behind in sensor tech.