Olympus 8000 vs Panasonic ZS20

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Olympus 8000 and Panasonic ZS20, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the 8000 (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is pretty well matched and they use the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The 8000 was introduced 3 years before the ZS20 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the 8000 matches up versus the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough 8000 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus 8000 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera, you'll have to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus 8000 comes with physical measurements of 95mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 182 grams (0.40 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check the Olympus 8000 and Panasonic ZS20 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the 8000 vs the ZS20.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the 8000 and ZS20 is 94 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by checking technical specs. The pic underneath will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the 8000 and ZS20.

As you can tell, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic ZS20 to resolve more detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more aged 8000 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.