Clicky

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic SZ7

Portability
74
Imaging
67
Features
84
Overall
73
Nikon Z50 front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7 front
Portability
95
Imaging
37
Features
41
Overall
38

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic SZ7 Key Specs

Nikon Z50
(Full Review)
  • 21MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3.2" Tilting Screen
  • ISO 100 - 51200 (Push to 204800)
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • Nikon Z Mount
  • 397g - 127 x 94 x 60mm
  • Introduced October 2019
Panasonic SZ7
(Full Review)
  • 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-250mm (F3.1-5.9) lens
  • 133g - 99 x 59 x 21mm
  • Introduced January 2012
Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic Lumix SZ7: A Hands-On, Expert Comparison of Two Distinct Cameras

Choosing a camera is rarely a straightforward task, especially when the contenders on the table represent very different ends of the photography spectrum. Today, we dive deep into two interesting models: the Nikon Z50 - an entry-level mirrorless camera launched in late 2019 - and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7, a compact point-and-shoot introduced back in 2012. At face value, they barely share the same DNA. Yet, both have been marketed to users who want quality imagery with portability and ease of use. So, which one should you pick, and for what purpose?

Having personally handled thousands of cameras over the years, including both mirrorless and compact options, I’ll walk you through detailed, practical performance comparisons from every angle important to enthusiasts and pros alike. From sensor size and image quality to autofocus, ergonomics, and video features - this is a comprehensive match-up. Buckle in.

Size and Handling - More Than Just Dimensions

Let’s start by getting a feel for these two in your hands.

The Nikon Z50 is a mirrorless camera with an SLR-style design, a solid grip, and a sturdy yet compact body. It measures 127 mm wide, 94 mm tall, and 60 mm deep, weighing about 397 grams. This puts it squarely in the comfortable range for photographers who enjoy extended shooting sessions.

On the other hand, the Panasonic SZ7 is a tiny compact camera, roughly 99 mm wide, 59 mm tall, and only 21 mm thick, tipping the scales at just 133 grams. It’s truly pocketable, even in tighter jackets or smaller bags.

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic SZ7 size comparison

Holding the Nikon Z50, you immediately notice the tactile feedback - decent-sized buttons, a thumb rest, and an overall robust feel. It’s designed for photographers who want to manually control settings and hold the camera steadily to maximize image sharpness. Meanwhile, the SZ7 almost begs you to snap spontaneous moments, slipping into your pocket without effort. However, holding and operating it for longer times may get tiring due to its slim and lightweight plastic body.

For any serious enthusiast or professional, the Z50 feels at home. Beginners or casual shooters who prioritize portability might appreciate the extended convenience of the SZ7 - if a compact form is paramount.

Body Design and Top Controls: Intuitive vs. Minimalist

Looking down at their control layouts sheds more light on their intended users.

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic SZ7 top view buttons comparison

The Nikon Z50 offers a traditional top panel with dedicated dials for ISO, shutter speed, exposure compensation, and a mode dial that supports aperture priority, shutter priority, manual, and program modes. This caters well to photographers comfortable with exposure fundamentals and who want tactile adjustments on the go. Buttons are well labeled, with customizable function buttons offering more flexibility.

Conversely, the SZ7 is streamlined for simplicity, lacking manual exposure controls. It features a mode dial with scene presets and an auto mode. Button count is minimal, and the camera relies heavily on automation, which can be limiting but excellent for beginners or quick shooting without fuss.

The difference here underlines the Nikon’s approach: empower the user with manual control and ergonomics suited for thoughtful shooting. Panasonic’s SZ7 leans toward casual users who want to point and shoot without learning curves.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality - The Heart of the Camera

What truly separates these two cameras in practice is sensor technology and resulting image quality.

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic SZ7 sensor size comparison

The Nikon Z50 sports a 21.0-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor sized at 23.5 x 15.7 mm, which is approximately 369 mm² in area, featuring a backside-illuminated (BSI) design paired with Nikon’s Expeed 6 processor. This larger sensor translates into better dynamic range, improved low-light performance, and more shallow depth-of-field control, all very useful for artistic photography.

By contrast, the Panasonic SZ7 has a 14-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm, 27.72 mm²). This sensor size is common in compact cameras but pales in comparison to APS-C sensors. Consequently, the SZ7 struggles under low light, produces more noise at higher ISOs, and delivers narrower dynamic range.

In practical testing, I found the Z50’s images display clean, nuanced textures with smooth gradations and vibrant yet natural colors. The SZ7’s results are adequate for snaps and casual sharing but reveal softness, color shifts, and noise creeping in beyond ISO 400, especially under indoor or shadowed scenes.

Rear LCD and Interface: Usability Matters

A camera’s screen plays a significant role in ergonomics and creative control.

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic SZ7 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The Z50 boasts a 3.2-inch, 1040k-dot touchscreen with tilting capability, allowing for high-angle or low-angle composing with ease. Touch functionality enables quick autofocus point selection, menu navigation, and image review swiping - very handy on the move.

Meanwhile, the SZ7’s fixed 3-inch screen has a modest 460k-dot resolution without touch capabilities. It’s serviceable outdoors with decent brightness, but viewing angles are limited, and you’ll rely on physical buttons for menu navigation.

For anyone used to the quick responsiveness of modern touchscreens, the Z50 feels miles ahead. The SZ7’s screen is strictly utilitarian - fitting its beginner-level, compact design but somewhat restrictive for framing creative angles.

Autofocus Systems - Precision vs. Basic Performance

Let me emphasize here that autofocus quality can make or break a shooting experience - particularly for active or wildlife photographers.

The Nikon Z50 employs a hybrid AF system combining phase-detection and contrast detection with 209 focus points spread across the sensor. It supports eye and animal eye AF tracking that locks quickly and accurately on faces and pets alike, even in moderately low light.

The Panasonic SZ7 relies solely on contrast detection with 23 focus points, more limited coverage, and generally slower focusing speed. Its focusing accuracy is decent for general scenes but struggles with moving subjects or dim environments.

When putting the Z50 through fast-moving wildlife, portraiture, and street sessions, the autofocus performance was consistently confident and reliable - nearly on par with much pricier models. The SZ7, while okay for still subjects and casual snapshots, simply can’t keep pace in sporting action or wildlife pursuits.

Burst and Shutter Speed: Capturing the Decisive Moment

Speed in shooting bursts goes hand in hand with autofocus when capturing action.

The Nikon Z50 can shoot up to 11 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking, paired with a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s. This enables freezing fast action crisply.

The SZ7 offers around 10 fps burst but without advanced AF tracking during burst and max shutter speed topping out at 1/1600s, which can limit sharpness in bright outdoor scenarios and fast-moving subjects.

For sports and wildlife photographers - or anyone wanting to freeze motion with confidence - Z50’s performance will stack up much better.

Video Capabilities: 4K vs. Full HD

With video posing an increasing requirement, let’s compare video specs and results.

The Nikon Z50 supports 4K UHD video up to 30p (3840x2160), along with Full HD 60p capabilities. It uses H.264 codec in MOV containers and provides a microphone input for improved audio capture but lacks headphone out for monitoring.

The Panasonic SZ7 maxes out at Full HD 1080p 60 fps but does not have microphone or headphone ports.

Video quality from the Z50 is noticeably sharper with better detail, richer colors, and superior low-light tone retention compared to the SZ7’s softer, noisier footage. The Z50 also benefits from in-body electronic stabilization (though limited) and manual exposure control in video mode - features absent on the SZ7.

Battery Life and Storage: Real-World Considerations

The Z50 uses the EN-EL25 rechargeable lithium-ion battery rated for about 320 shots per charge under CIPA standards. While not class-leading, this is solid for mirrorless cameras, especially with efficient sensor and processor technology.

SZ7, with a smaller internal battery pack, offers around 220 shots max, which is sufficient for casual day trips but may necessitate spare batteries on longer outings.

Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with the Z50 supporting faster UHS-II cards for quicker write speeds - useful for high burst rates and video.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Despite the Nikon Z50 being an entry-level model, it surprisingly features some level of environmental sealing, giving peace of mind against dust and light moisture - ideal for outdoor photography in unpredictable conditions.

The Panasonic SZ7, being a small compact, has no weather sealing of any sort. Its plastic construction is adequate but certainly not robust against harsh conditions.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

This is where the mirrorless system advantage shines. The Nikon Z50 utilizes the newer Nikon Z mount, compatible with a growing lineup of native Z-mount lenses, including from Nikon and third-party manufacturers, covering a broad array of focal lengths and apertures. It also works with older F-mount lenses using an adapter, increasing versatility.

Meanwhile, the SZ7 comes with a fixed 25-250mm (35mm equivalent) zoom lens at f/3.1-5.9 aperture. You’re limited to this lens. While convenient, this restricts creative control compared to interchangeable lens systems.

Photography Styles and Use Cases

Given these stark differences, let’s analyze how each camera fares across diverse photography genres.

Portraits

The Nikon Z50’s APS-C sensor and lens options allow beautiful skin tone rendition and creamy bokeh from wide-aperture primes. Its eye-detection autofocus supports pinpoint sharpness on subjects’ eyes to elevate portrait quality. The SZ7, with a smaller sensor and slower lens, offers limited background blur and less precise focusing.

Landscapes

The Z50’s dynamic range outperforms compacts significantly, allowing capture of nuanced shadows and highlights in scenes. Its weather sealing bolsters its outdoor credentials. Its 20+ megapixels provide plenty of detail.

SZ7’s smaller sensor struggles to maintain detail in shadows and highlights. Though 10x zoom helps with framing distant horizons, image quality remains modest.

Wildlife

The Z50’s autofocus sophistication, burst speed, and lens selection make it a capable option for casual wildlife photographers. The SZ7 can’t keep up with moving subjects but can serve as a lightweight backup or travel snapper.

Sports

Z50’s rapid continuous shooting, fast AF, and manual exposure modes shine for sports. SZ7 is too basic for most serious sports photography demands.

Street

SZ7 excels in stealth and ease, pocketable and unobtrusive. Z50 is larger but has quiet shooting modes and tilting screen for varied perspectives.

Macro

Neither camera has dedicated macro lenses in the SZ7’s case, or native macro lenses for the Z50 with excellent magnification. However, Z50 paired with Sigma or Nikon Z macro lenses delivers better precision and image quality.

Night and Astro

Z50’s superior sensor handles high ISO far better. Noise control, exposure latitude, and manual controls provide astrophotographers flexibility unmatched by the SZ7.

Sample Images: Side-By-Side Results

To visualize these differences, consider these camera gallery shots captured in varied scenarios.

Notice the clarity, sharpness, and dynamic range advantages of the Z50 photos compared to the SZ7’s softer output.

Performance Ratings: Overall and Genre Specific

Based on my intensive testing and benchmarking:

The Nikon Z50 ranks higher overall, particularly excelling in portraits, landscapes, wildlife, sports, and night photography. Panasonic SZ7 performs well in travel and street thanks to its ultra-portable design but lacks depth in specialized photography.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The Nikon Z50 includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for instant sharing and remote control on smartphones, along with a full-size HDMI port and a microphone input, which add to its flexibility.

The Panasonic SZ7 lacks wireless connectivity, limiting how quickly images can be shared, though it does have an HDMI output for viewing on larger displays.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

Currently, the Nikon Z50 retails at around $857, while the Panasonic SZ7 is about $199.

For users seeking long-term photographic growth, superior image quality, and creative control, the Z50 justifies its higher price quite compellingly.

The SZ7’s bargain cost and simple operation appeal to budget-conscious beginners or travelers desiring a no-fuss snapper but accept its technical limitations.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

If you ask me, the Nikon Z50 is a versatile entry-level mirrorless camera delivering standout image quality, manual control, solid performance, and expanding lens compatibility. It will serve enthusiasts and even pros looking for a second body exceptionally well across nearly all photography disciplines. The additional weight and size aren’t a dealbreaker if you prioritize quality and flexibility.

On the flip side, the Panasonic Lumix SZ7 is a well-priced, pocket-friendly compact ideal as a casual throw-around camera or travel companion where ultra portability matters more than image fidelity. But don’t expect much beyond convenience snaps with relatively basic output.

In short:

  • Choose Nikon Z50 if you want DSLR-style controls, interchangeable lenses, great low-light and autofocus, and plan to pursue multiple genres such as portraits, wildlife, sports, landscape, and video seriously.

  • Go Panasonic SZ7 if you crave a tiny, grab-and-go camera for casual shooting, street photography, and simple travel snapshots on a tight budget or as a secondary camera.

Offering this detailed insight, I hope you feel better equipped to make an informed choice between two cameras that serve different needs exceptionally well within their categories. Whether you value image quality and creative control or utmost portability and ease, your perfect match is here. Happy shooting!

Nikon Z50 vs Panasonic SZ7 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Nikon Z50 and Panasonic SZ7
 Nikon Z50Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7
General Information
Make Nikon Panasonic
Model Nikon Z50 Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7
Class Entry-Level Mirrorless Small Sensor Compact
Introduced 2019-10-10 2012-01-09
Body design SLR-style mirrorless Compact
Sensor Information
Chip Expeed 6 -
Sensor type BSI-CMOS CMOS
Sensor size APS-C 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 23.5 x 15.7mm 6.08 x 4.56mm
Sensor surface area 369.0mm² 27.7mm²
Sensor resolution 21 megapixels 14 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Peak resolution 5568 x 3712 4320 x 3240
Highest native ISO 51200 6400
Highest enhanced ISO 204800 -
Lowest native ISO 100 100
RAW files
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Autofocus touch
Continuous autofocus
Autofocus single
Tracking autofocus
Selective autofocus
Center weighted autofocus
Autofocus multi area
Autofocus live view
Face detection autofocus
Contract detection autofocus
Phase detection autofocus
Number of focus points 209 23
Lens
Lens mounting type Nikon Z fixed lens
Lens focal range - 25-250mm (10.0x)
Highest aperture - f/3.1-5.9
Macro focus range - 4cm
Amount of lenses 15 -
Crop factor 1.5 5.9
Screen
Screen type Tilting Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 3.2 inch 3 inch
Screen resolution 1,040k dot 460k dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch functionality
Screen technology - TFT Color LCD
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Electronic None
Viewfinder resolution 2,360k dot -
Viewfinder coverage 100 percent -
Features
Min shutter speed 30s 8s
Max shutter speed 1/4000s 1/1600s
Continuous shutter speed 11.0 frames per sec 10.0 frames per sec
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation Yes -
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash range 7.00 m (at ISO 100) 5.60 m
Flash options - Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye reduction
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Video resolutions 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 (60, 30 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 30fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps)
Highest video resolution 3840x2160 1920x1080
Video data format MPEG-4, H.264 MPEG-4, AVCHD
Mic input
Headphone input
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 397 grams (0.88 lbs) 133 grams (0.29 lbs)
Dimensions 127 x 94 x 60mm (5.0" x 3.7" x 2.4") 99 x 59 x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth score not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range score not tested not tested
DXO Low light score not tested not tested
Other
Battery life 320 photographs 220 photographs
Style of battery Built-in Battery Pack
Battery model EN-EL25 -
Self timer Yes Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC card (UHS-II supported) SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Storage slots 1 1
Pricing at release $857 $199