Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic SZ8

Following is a in-depth overview of the Panasonic FZ100 and Panasonic SZ8, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras and both of them are sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FZ100 (14MP) and the SZ8 (16MP) is fairly comparable and they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ100 was manufactured 4 years earlier than the SZ8 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera.

Before delving in to a thorough comparison, below is a brief summary of how the FZ100 scores versus the SZ8 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ100 Gallery and Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ100 enjoys outside dimensions of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ8 has dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FZ100 and Panasonic SZ8 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the FZ100 against the SZ8.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the FZ100 and SZ8 is 67 and 94 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes only by going through specs. The pic below may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ100 and SZ8.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Panasonic SZ8 to show extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics far more aggressively. The more aged FZ100 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.