Panasonic ZS200 vs Panasonic FH8

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Panasonic ZS200 vs Panasonic FH8, former is a Large Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both sold by Panasonic. There exists a substantial gap among the image resolutions of the ZS200 (20MP) and FH8 (16MP) and the ZS200 (1") and FH8 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The ZS200 was revealed 6 years after the FH8 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS200 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Panasonic FH8 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick overview of how the ZS200 scores versus the FH8 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS200 Gallery & Panasonic FH8 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera often, you'll need to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS200 has got outside measurements of 111mm x 66mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.8") along with a weight of 340 grams (0.75 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH8 has specifications of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS200 vs Panasonic FH8 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the ZS200 compared to the FH8.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS200 and FH8 is 86 and 96 respectively.

More often than not, it can be tough to visualise the difference in sensor sizes only by looking through specs. The pic below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS200 and FH8.

All in all, both of the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The ZS200 using its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic ZS200 will result in greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The fresher ZS200 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.