Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic ZS45

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic ZS45, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras and they are both sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the ZS45 (16MP) is fairly well matched and they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ40 was revealed 5 years prior to the ZS45 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the FZ40 grades vs the ZS45 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery and Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ40 offers physical measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) and 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).

Analyze the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic ZS45 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at the time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the FZ40 versus the ZS45.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ40 and ZS45 is 68 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to visualize the difference between sensor measurements just by looking at specs. The visual here may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ40 and ZS45.

All in all, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should anticipate the Panasonic ZS45 to resolve greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively. The older FZ40 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.