Panasonic FZ150 vs Pentax RZ18

Let's look more in depth at the Panasonic FZ150 versus Pentax RZ18, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a crucial gap among the image resolutions of the FZ150 (12MP) and RZ18 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ150 was revealed 8 months after the RZ18 so they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ150 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a brief summary of how the FZ150 grades versus the RZ18 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ150 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera, you will have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic FZ150 comes with outer measurements of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") along with a weight of 528 grams (1.16 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has sizing of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FZ150 versus Pentax RZ18 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use at the time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the FZ150 compared to the RZ18.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FZ150 and RZ18 is 67 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizes simply by going through a spec sheet. The image underneath should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ150 and RZ18.

As you can see, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Pentax RZ18 to show more detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The fresher FZ150 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.