Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic ZS45

Here is a in depth comparison of the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic ZS45, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are offered by Panasonic. There exists a significant gap among the resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and ZS45 (16MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FX78 was unveiled 5 years before the ZS45 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the FX78 grades vs the ZS45 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera often, you should take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FX78 has outer measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS45 has dimensions of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic ZS45 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the FX78 versus the ZS45.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FX78 and ZS45 is 95 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to envision the difference in sensor sizing only by seeing a spec sheet. The graphic here might give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the FX78 and ZS45.

As you can see, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Panasonic ZS45 to provide extra detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The older FX78 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.