Panasonic ZS80 vs Panasonic GF8

Below, we are analyzing the Panasonic ZS80 vs Panasonic GF8, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are created by Panasonic. There is a substantial difference between the image resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and GF8 (16MP) and the ZS80 (1/2.3") and GF8 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The ZS80 was announced 2 years after the GF8 which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS80 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a full comparison, below is a simple summation of how the ZS80 grades against the GF8 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery & Panasonic GF8 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to travel with your camera, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS80 features outside dimensions of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") with a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) while the Panasonic GF8 has measurements of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS80 vs Panasonic GF8 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you use during that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS80 vs the GF8.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the ZS80 and GF8 is 86 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions simply by reading technical specs. The picture below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS80 and GF8.

As you have seen, both cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The ZS80 using its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more difficult and the Panasonic ZS80 will offer more detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The newer ZS80 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.