Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic ZS1

Following is a in depth overview of the Panasonic FX78 versus Panasonic ZS1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both offered by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FX78 (12MP) and the ZS1 (10MP) is fairly close but the FX78 (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") use totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FX78 was revealed 21 months after the ZS1 making the cameras a generation away from one another. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a in depth comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the FX78 grades versus the ZS1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FX78 has got physical measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS1 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FX78 versus Panasonic ZS1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the FX78 vs the ZS1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FX78 and ZS1 is 95 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it is hard to envision the difference in sensor sizes merely by viewing specs. The pic underneath will help give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FX78 and ZS1.

All in all, the two cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FX78 having a larger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic FX78 will provide you with extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The younger FX78 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.