Panasonic FZ200 vs Pentax RZ18

The following is a extended overview of the Panasonic FZ200 and Pentax RZ18, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the FZ200 (12MP) and RZ18 (16MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FZ200 was announced 11 months after the RZ18 and they are of a similar generation. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ200 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a simple overview of how the FZ200 grades vs the RZ18 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ200 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera often, you should consider its weight and size. The Panasonic FZ200 has got outside dimensions of 125mm x 87mm x 110mm (4.9" x 3.4" x 4.3") and a weight of 588 grams (1.30 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has specifications of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ200 and Pentax RZ18 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the FZ200 versus the RZ18.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FZ200 and RZ18 is 65 and 92 respectively.

Usually, its tough to see the difference between sensor dimensions simply by reading through a spec sheet. The picture here may provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ200 and RZ18.

Clearly, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Pentax RZ18 to give you more detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures way more aggressively. The more recent FZ200 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.