Panasonic ZS80 vs Pentax RZ18

The following is a complete assessment of the Panasonic ZS80 vs Pentax RZ18, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and RZ18 (16MP) but both cameras offer the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZS80 was introduced 6 years after the RZ18 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a full comparison, here is a brief summary of how the ZS80 scores against the RZ18 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera often, you'll have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS80 has outside dimensions of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) and the Pentax RZ18 has specifications of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS80 vs Pentax RZ18 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the ZS80 compared to the RZ18.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS80 and RZ18 is 86 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to visualize the gap in sensor dimensions only by going through a spec sheet. The pic below will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS80 and RZ18.

Clearly, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size but different resolution. You can expect to see the Panasonic ZS80 to provide extra detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics way more aggressively. The more modern ZS80 should have an edge with regard to sensor tech.