Panasonic ZS80 vs Sony A65

Below, we will be analyzing the Panasonic ZS80 vs Sony A65, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS80 (20MP) and the A65 (24MP) is relatively well matched but the ZS80 (1/2.3") and A65 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor measurements.

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The ZS80 was brought out 6 years later than the A65 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS80 being a Compact camera and the Sony A65 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving in to a complete comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the ZS80 matches up vs the A65 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 and Sony SLT-A65. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery and Sony A65 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS80 has got exterior 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 Sony A65 has dimensions of 132mm x 97mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") and a weight of 622 grams (1.37 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS80 vs Sony A65 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the ZS80 versus the A65.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS80 and A65 is 86 and 64 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing merely by looking at specifications. The graphic below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS80 and A65.

To sum up, both of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS80 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Sony A65 will resolve greater detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The more recent ZS80 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.