Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic ZS40

The following is a in-depth review of the Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic ZS40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras and both are manufactured by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FZ80 (18MP) and the ZS40 (18MP) is relatively comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ80 was announced 3 years after the ZS40 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the FZ80 grades vs the ZS40 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery and Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera often, you will want to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FZ80 enjoys exterior dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") and a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS40 has sizing of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic ZS40 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the FZ80 and the ZS40.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FZ80 and ZS40 is 63 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to see the difference in sensor dimensions purely by going through a spec sheet. The picture below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ80 and ZS40.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the identical resolution and you should expect comparable quality of pictures but you have to take the release date of the cameras into account. The fresher FZ80 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.