Panasonic G2 vs Panasonic SZ8

Lets take a more detailed look at the Panasonic G2 vs Panasonic SZ8, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are designed by Panasonic. There is a sizable difference between the image resolutions of the G2 (12MP) and SZ8 (16MP) and the G2 (Four Thirds) and SZ8 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The G2 was revealed 4 years earlier than the SZ8 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a quick overview of how the G2 scores vs the SZ8 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic G2 Gallery & Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic G2 enjoys exterior measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 74mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ8 has sizing of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic G2 vs Panasonic SZ8 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the G2 and the SZ8.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the G2 and SZ8 is 72 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizing simply by looking at technical specs. The graphic below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the G2 and SZ8.

As you have seen, each of these cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The G2 having a bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic SZ8 will give you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The older G2 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.