Panasonic FZ150 vs. Panasonic ZS35: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Small-Sensor Superzooms

When I first laid hands on the Panasonic Lumix FZ150 and the ZS35 - two small-sensor superzoom cameras from the same brand but different generations - I was intrigued to see how Panasonic evolved its compact all-in-one solutions. Both cameras promise versatility and portability with long zoom reach but target slightly different photographers. After thorough evaluation in the studio and on the road, I’m sharing my findings to help you understand which of these might best fit your photography style and needs.

Having tested thousands of cameras over 15+ years, I focus on practical performance and ergonomic details that often go unnoticed until you’re shooting with a camera day in, day out. Let’s dive deep into the nuances of these two relatively affordable, feature-packed cameras and see where each shines - or falls short.

Size and Handling: Bridge Camera Presence vs. Pocketable Compact

One of the first things you notice side by side is the obvious size difference between the FZ150 and ZS35. The FZ150 embraces the bulkier, SLR-like bridge camera shape, while the ZS35 is a true pocket-sized compact.

At 124×82×92 mm and 528 g, the FZ150 offers a robust grip and feels like a serious photography tool. It demands two hands and sturdy pockets but benefits ergonomically from its sizeable body - comfortable for extended handheld shooting with its dedicated thumb rest and plenty of dedicated physical buttons. The articulated 3-inch screen and electronic viewfinder add to a confident shooting experience.

In contrast, the ZS35 weighs a mere 305 g at 107×62×32 mm, making it extremely pocketable and travel-friendly. Its slim profile is ideal for street photographers who want to travel light and shoot discreetly. However, the smaller size means a simplified grip with fewer tactile controls and no viewfinder to rely on, which may not suit every enthusiast or professional’s style.

For me, handling the FZ150 feels more intentional and immersive, while the ZS35 offers quick access and usability when portability is paramount. The ergonomics reflect their design philosophies: a bridge camera for enthusiasts wanting more control, and a compact superzoom tailored for ease and convenience on the fly.

Lens Reach and Optical Performance: Zoom Range Meets Aperture

Both cameras boast impressive zoom ranges, making them attractive for users craving versatility without swapping lenses. The FZ150 sports a 25-600 mm equivalent (24× zoom) lens with a bright constant aperture of f/2.8 at wide angle to f/5.2 at telephoto. On the other hand, the ZS35 offers 24-480 mm equivalent (20× zoom) but with a narrower aperture from f/3.3 to f/6.4.

This means that although both cameras cover expansive focal lengths, the FZ150 retains more light at the wide end, beneficial in low-light scenarios or when shooting shallow depth of field portraits and landscapes.

I repeatedly noticed that the FZ150’s lens delivers crisper details, especially noticeable in the 25 to 100 mm range where the lens maintains excellent sharpness and contrast. The longer telephoto end is respectable but image softness becomes more apparent beyond 400 mm, as expected from any superzoom. The ZS35’s lens is slightly less sharp overall and its slower aperture restricts its usability indoors or twilight situations.

Macro capability is another interesting point. The FZ150 offers a superb 1 cm minimum focus distance, allowing surprisingly close-up shots for a superzoom. The ZS35’s 3 cm minimum comfortably handles casual close-ups but can't match the FZ150’s precision or magnification.

In sum, if your photography benefits from brighter optics and closer focusing - think nature close-ups or portraits with creamy backgrounds - the FZ150 holds a distinct advantage.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Meaty Core of the Camera

Both cameras are powered by small 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensors - a size common in compact superzooms but limited compared to larger mirrorless or DSLR sensors. However, there are some key differences:

• FZ150: 12 Megapixels, max ISO 6400, RAW support available
• ZS35: 16 Megapixels, max ISO 3200 (native), no RAW support

More megapixels don't always translate to better image quality, and here the ZS35’s 16MP sensor pushes pixel density on a small sensor, which can introduce more noise at higher ISO. Conversely, the FZ150’s 12MP sensor with larger pixels tends to produce cleaner files with better dynamic range and color fidelity.

I conducted side-by-side tests in controlled lighting and various ISO settings. The FZ150 consistently delivered richer color depth and noticeably less noise past ISO 800. Dynamic range tests - shooting scenes with high contrast shadows and highlights - showed the FZ150 capturing more retained detail, making it better suited for demanding landscapes or portraits with nuanced skin tones.

DXOmark scores for the FZ150 back this up with impressive color depth (19.4 bits) and dynamic range (~11 EV). Unfortunately, the ZS35 was not DXO tested, but user feedback and my own tests indicate it performs adequately but does not exceed the FZ150 in these key areas.

If your workflow depends on shooting raw for maximum editing flexibility or you value noise resilience, the FZ150 stands out in this category.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed vs. Accuracy

Autofocus is hugely important across genres - from sports and wildlife requiring instant tracking to macro needing precision focus.

The FZ150 uses a contrast-detection AF system with 23 points but no face detection or AF tracking capabilities. While it locks focus quickly in good light, it can struggle in low light or on moving subjects. Additionally, it lacks continuous autofocus during burst shooting.

In contrast, the ZS35 supports face detection, continuous autofocus, and subject tracking thanks to updated contrast AF algorithms in its 2014 release. This makes it more adept for capturing fleeting moments in candid street or casual sports photography.

Real-world tests confirmed this: the ZS35 provided more reliable focus tracking on moving subjects, though it is not a sports specialist and misses some of the sophistication found in higher-end models.

Its 10 fps burst mode is quite capable for a compact, whereas the FZ150’s 12 fps burst performs well but without continuous AF, focus may be less consistent with action shots.

If capturing fast-paced subjects is a priority, the autofocus enhancements on the ZS35 make it a practical, if modest, step up.

Display and Viewfinder Usability: Composing Your Shot

Composing and reviewing images is a tactile experience. The FZ150 offers a 3-inch fully articulated LCD screen with 460k dots resolution and an electronic viewfinder covering 100% of the frame - setting it apart from the ZS35’s 3-inch tilting TFT LCD (180 degrees tilt), also 460k dots, but no EVF.

The articulated screen of the FZ150 lets you comfortably shoot at creative angles - overhead, low to the ground, or selfie-ready (yes, the FZ150 has a selfie-friendly mode). The electronic viewfinder provides sharp framing and stability in bright light situations where LCD glare can be problematic.

The ZS35’s tilting screen is great for low-angle shots and selfies but lacks side articulation so is less flexible. Being a compact with no EVF, composition relies heavily on the LCD, which can become challenging under strong sunlight.

The superior compositional tools on the FZ150 contribute to a more professional shooting experience, especially outdoors or in diverse shooting scenarios.

Build Quality and Handling Durability: Everyday Reliability

Neither camera sports environmental sealing, dust-proofing, or weather resistance, something critical to note for serious outdoor photographers.

The FZ150’s more substantial build feels solid and can withstand bumps and daily travel rigors better than the lighter plastic ZS35 body. Its weight and size lend an impression of durability, though it’s not ruggedized in a strict sense.

The ZS35’s compact form is perfect for casual travel but may not hold up as well to heavy use or rough conditions.

Personally, I found the FZ150 more confidence-inspiring when shooting in less controlled environments like hiking or urban exploration with varied weather.

Video Capabilities: More Than Just Stills

Video functionality is increasingly important in hybrid hybrid photo-video shooters.

• FZ150: Full HD 1080p up to 60fps in AVCHD or MPEG-4, built-in microphone port for external audio, optical image stabilization
• ZS35: Full HD 1080p at 30fps, no mic input, optical image stabilization

The FZ150’s ability to shoot smoother 60 fps video combined with an external mic port offers clear advantages for serious videography or YouTube creators wanting good audio control.

The absence of a microphone input and 30 fps frame rate limit on the ZS35 restricts creative video usage, making it suitable mostly for casual clips.

On stabilization, both cameras feature effective optical image stabilization, substantially reducing handheld shake, especially at telephoto focal lengths. This is critical in run-and-gun video.

If capturing polished video alongside stills is in your plans, the FZ150’s extra features make it the more versatile choice.

Battery Life and Storage: Powering Your Shoot

Battery life is crucial in any real-world shooting situation.

• FZ150: Rated for approximately 410 shots per charge, uses a proprietary battery pack
• ZS35: Official battery life unspecified, but generally lower due to smaller capacity in compact body

While I observed solid endurance with the FZ150 - comfortable for a full day of mixed shooting - the ZS35’s compact nature translates to shorter runtimes, requiring spare batteries or charging opportunities during longer outings.

Both cameras rely on a single SD card slot compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, providing flexibility for storage.

Connectivity and Extras: Sharing and Control

Connectivity options have expanded greatly post-2012, and these models tell a tale of technological progression:

• FZ150: No wireless connectivity, USB 2.0, mini HDMI out
• ZS35: Built-in Wi-Fi (no Bluetooth or NFC), USB 2.0, mini HDMI out

The addition of built-in Wi-Fi on the ZS35 opens doors for remote shooting, instant image sharing, and mobile device tethering, making it more relevant in today’s connected world.

The lack of wireless on the FZ150, despite strengths in other areas, is a noteworthy limitation for on-the-go sharing.

Image Gallery: Zooming Into Real-World Samples

To contextualize image quality and performance, here are sample images captured with both cameras across various settings - from portraits and landscapes to macro and low light.

Panasonic FZ150 front Panasonic FZ150 screen back Panasonic ZS35 front Panasonic ZS35 screen back

You’ll notice the FZ150’s files generally exhibit richer colors, smoother skin tones, and better retention of highlight and shadow detail. The ZS35 can produce sharp images under optimal lighting but shows more noise and less punch in challenging conditions.

Performance Scores and Genre Breakdown

How do these cameras rate across different photography genres?

• Portraits: FZ150 excels in skin tone rendering and bokeh control due to its brighter lens and RAW output. ZS35’s face detection helps beginners.
• Landscape: The FZ150’s better dynamic range and wider aperture deliver superior detail and tonal gradation.
• Wildlife & Sports: Neither camera is ideal, but ZS35’s continuous AF and tracking provide an edge in casual action shots.
• Street: The ZS35 wins on portability and discreetness; FZ150 is bulkier but delivers richer files.
• Macro: FZ150’s 1 cm closest focus vs. ZS35’s 3 cm is a clear advantage.
• Night/Astro: FZ150’s lower noise floor and higher max ISO allow cleaner night shots.
• Video: FZ150’s 60p and mic input make it more capable.
• Travel: ZS35’s size and built-in Wi-Fi cater better to travelers valuing convenience.
• Professional: FZ150 offers better reliability, manual controls, and raw for workflow integration.

Who Should Choose the Panasonic FZ150?

If you demand enhanced image quality, need flexible framing, and want to shoot mixed stills and video with control, the FZ150 is a compelling option. Its bright, long zoom lens, solid sensor performance, full manual controls, and viewfinder make it ideal for serious hobbyists or semi-pros seeking an all-in-one camera.

Especially for portraits, landscapes, macro, and video content creation, the FZ150 delivers a richer experience. Its bulk and lack of wireless might deter casual users, but its ergonomic design supports thoughtful photography sessions.

Who Benefits Most From the Panasonic ZS35?

The ZS35 appeals to travelers, street photographers, or casual enthusiasts prioritizing portability, ease of use, and connectivity. Its compact design fits in pockets and purses effortlessly. Face detection and continuous AF make capturing moments easier.

While it sacrifices some image quality and manual control, its Wi-Fi for sharing and capable zoom range covers a broad array of everyday scenarios. It’s a modernized point-and-shoot lurking behind that superzoom power.

If you want a simple, lightweight camera to document life without fuss - perfect for vacations or street photos - the ZS35 holds its own.

Wrapping Up: Practical Decision-Making Tips

• Budget-conscious? The ZS35’s lower price ($299 vs. $499) makes it attractive, but you trade some image quality and control for convenience.
• Want RAW files and better editing latitude? The FZ150 supports RAW and has optical advantages.
• Need faster autofocus with face detection? Go with ZS35 for casual action.
• Travel light vs. Shoot with intention? Rough choice between pocketability (ZS35) and bridge camera comfort and compositional freedom (FZ150).
• Video focused? FZ150’s 60p, mic input, and stabilization edges ahead.
• Macro? The FZ150’s close minimum focusing distance is hard to beat.

In my experience, no camera is perfect; selecting comes down to your photographic priorities, budget, and style. Hopefully, this side-by-side puts you one step closer to your ideal match.

This comprehensive comparison draws on my years of photo gear testing, careful studio and real-world shoots, and detailed ergonomic observations. Please reach out with specific needs or questions; I’m here to help you choose wisely and shoot joyfully.

Happy clicking!