Panasonic ZS80 vs Samsung HZ30W

Let's look a bit more closely at the Panasonic ZS80 and Samsung HZ30W, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Samsung. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and HZ30W (12MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The ZS80 was introduced 8 years later than the HZ30W and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the ZS80 matches up vs the HZ30W with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 and Samsung HZ30W. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery and Samsung HZ30W Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera frequently, you will have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS80 comes with external 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 Samsung HZ30W has specifications of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS80 and Samsung HZ30W in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the ZS80 vs the HZ30W.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS80 and HZ30W is 86 and 91 respectively.

Usually, its tough to visualize the contrast between sensor measurements merely by going over specifications. The graphic here should give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS80 and HZ30W.

To sum up, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic ZS80 to deliver more detail using its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent ZS80 should have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.