Panasonic FX580 vs Sony HX80

The following is a complete analysis of the Panasonic FX580 vs Sony HX80, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the FX580 (12MP) and HX80 (18MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FX580 was revealed 8 years prior to the HX80 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a short summary of how the FX580 grades against the HX80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX580 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX580 Gallery and Sony HX80 Gallery.

In case you're going to travel with your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FX580 features physical dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Sony HX80 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") along with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FX580 vs Sony HX80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the FX580 against the HX80.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FX580 and HX80 is 95 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by checking technical specs. The image underneath might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FX580 and HX80.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Sony HX80 to give you greater detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more aged FX580 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.