Panasonic ZS80 vs Sony RX100 III

Below, we will be reviewing the Panasonic ZS80 versus Sony RX100 III, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS80 (20MP) and the RX100 III (20MP) is relatively similar but the ZS80 (1/2.3") and RX100 III (1") possess totally different sensor size.

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The ZS80 was unveiled 3 years later than the RX100 III and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS80 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX100 III being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going in to a full comparison, below is a concise overview of how the ZS80 scores vs the RX100 III in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery and Sony RX100 III Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS80 provides external dimensions of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") and a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) while the Sony RX100 III has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") having a weight of 290 grams (0.64 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS80 versus Sony RX100 III in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the ZS80 compared to the RX100 III.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS80 and RX100 III is 86 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing only by reviewing specs. The graphic underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS80 and RX100 III.

All in all, each of the cameras have got the exact same megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The ZS80 features the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF more difficult. The newer ZS80 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.