Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic TS20

Let's take a more detailed look at the Panasonic FZ80 and Panasonic TS20, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof and both are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ80 (18MP) and the TS20 (16MP) is fairly similar and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ80 was unveiled 5 years later than the TS20 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic TS20 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a complete comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the FZ80 scores against the TS20 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS20. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery and Panasonic TS20 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ80 comes with physical dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") accompanied by a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) while the Panasonic TS20 has proportions of 101mm x 58mm x 19mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FZ80 and Panasonic TS20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the FZ80 and the TS20.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FZ80 and TS20 is 63 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing purely by going over technical specs. The graphic here may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ80 and TS20.

As you can tell, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Panasonic FZ80 to deliver greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more modern FZ80 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.