Panasonic FX48 vs Panasonic SZ8

In this write-up, we are looking at the Panasonic FX48 and Panasonic SZ8, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both produced by Panasonic. There is a large difference between the resolutions of the FX48 (12MP) and SZ8 (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The FX48 was announced 6 years prior to the SZ8 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the FX48 scores versus the SZ8 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX48 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX48 Gallery & Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FX48 features external dimensions of 95mm x 53mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.9") with a weight of 150 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ8 has proportions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FX48 and Panasonic SZ8 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have at the time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the FX48 versus the SZ8.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FX48 and SZ8 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to picture the gap between sensor measurements simply by reading specs. The photograph underneath will offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FX48 and SZ8.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You can expect to see the Panasonic SZ8 to deliver greater detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images far more aggressively. The older FX48 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.