Panasonic ZS200 vs Sony HX20V

Its time to look more closely at the Panasonic ZS200 vs Sony HX20V, one is a Large Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the ZS200 (20MP) and the HX20V (18MP) is fairly similar but the ZS200 (1") and HX20V (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The ZS200 was unveiled 5 years after the HX20V which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS200 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony HX20V being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a complete comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the ZS200 scores against the HX20V in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS200 Gallery and Sony HX20V Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS200 features physical 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 Sony HX20V has sizing of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS200 vs Sony HX20V in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilising during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the ZS200 vs the HX20V.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS200 and HX20V is 86 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizes merely by going over specifications. The image below might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS200 and HX20V.

To sum up, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The ZS200 having a larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic ZS200 will offer you greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more modern ZS200 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.