Panasonic FZ80 vs Sony A7R IV

Following is a extensive review of the Panasonic FZ80 versus Sony A7R IV, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the FZ80 (18MP) and A7R IV (61MP) and the FZ80 (1/2.3") and A7R IV (Full frame) posses different sensor dimensions.

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The FZ80 was revealed 3 years earlier than the A7R IV which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A7R IV being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief summation of how the FZ80 matches up vs the A7R IV when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 & Sony Alpha A7R IV. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery & Sony A7R IV Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FZ80 has exterior dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") along with a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) and the Sony A7R IV has measurements of 129mm x 96mm x 78mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 3.1") and a weight of 665 grams (1.47 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FZ80 versus Sony A7R IV in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the FZ80 compared to the A7R IV.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ80 and A7R IV is 63 and 62 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to imagine the gap in sensor sizes just by going through a spec sheet. The pic here might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ80 and A7R IV.

As you can see, both the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FZ80 using its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Sony A7R IV will show extra detail because of its extra 43MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged FZ80 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.