Panasonic FZ80 vs Pentax XG-1

Its time to look a little more in depth at the Panasonic FZ80 and Pentax XG-1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FZ80 (18MP) and the XG-1 (16MP) is very close and both cameras boast the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ80 was released 2 years later than the XG-1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before diving right into a thorough comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the FZ80 grades versus the XG-1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 and Pentax XG-1. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery and Pentax XG-1 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera, you'll have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic FZ80 enjoys outer measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") along with a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) whilst the Pentax XG-1 has sizing of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") and a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ80 and Pentax XG-1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the FZ80 versus the XG-1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the FZ80 and XG-1 is 63 and 66 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing merely by viewing technical specs. The visual underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ80 and XG-1.

As you have seen, both cameras come with the identical sensor size but different resolution. You should expect to see the Panasonic FZ80 to render greater detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more modern FZ80 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.