Panasonic GX85 vs Panasonic ZS20: An Expert Hands-On Comparison of Two Different Worlds in Compact Cameras

As someone who’s spent over 15 years testing cameras - from pro DSLRs to miraculously tiny compacts - it’s always fascinating to pit two Panasonic models that, on paper, seem so different, yet share the same brand DNA. Today, I’m giving you an in-depth, no-fluff comparison between the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 (aka GX80 / GX7 Mark II) and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 (a.k.a TZ30) to help you understand which camera makes better sense depending on your style, budget, and photographic ambitions.

These aren’t just two Panasonic cameras: they represent distinct categories at different eras in camera development. Let’s dig in.

Small but Mighty? Understanding Each Camera's Build and Ergonomics

First, let’s look at size and feel, because trust me - a camera that’s uncomfortable to hold or bulky in your bag can kill inspiration faster than bad weather.

• Panasonic GX85: This rangefinder-style mirrorless camera weighs 426g with dimensions about 122x71x44mm. It feels solid, not too bulky but definitely built for photographers who want some manual controls and decent grip without carrying a brick. The body is compact by mirrorless standards but large enough to handle confidently. The housing doesn’t have weather sealing, though, so keep that in mind if you shoot outdoors often.

• Panasonic ZS20: As a compact superzoom, this gem weighs only 206g - nearly half the GX85 - and measures 105x59x28mm, making it pocketable in a roomy jacket or large pants pocket. The fixed lens and compact body mean ultra-portability, but ergonomics are strictly “point and shoot” style; no real clubs for your thumbs here.

If you want a travel buddy that silently slips in your purse or pocket without demanding attention, ZS20 shines. But the GX85 offers a better handhold and more serious controls for those who crave tactile feedback.

Handling Controls: Buttons, Dials, and User Interface

Pulling these cameras out for a shoot, I was struck instantly by the difference in how Panasonic approached their usability.

• GX85 boasts an array of buttons, dials, and a mode dial that professionals and hobbyists who love manual control will adore. It supports aperture priority, shutter priority, manual exposure, and custom settings at the flick of a switch. There’s a dedicated ISO button and a customizable Fn button. The touch-enabled tilting screen adds further flexibility for creative angles.

• ZS20 keeps things simple with very few physical controls. It does have PASM modes (program, aperture, shutter, manual) but its fixed lens and automatic-oriented design means you’re mostly letting the camera do the thinking. A touchscreen is present but fixed; no tilting options here.

If you want to dial in your settings precisely or experiment with manual focus and exposure, the GX85 is like a dream come true. The ZS20 is for those who prefer to keep it super simple yet enjoy incredible zoom reach.

Sensors and Image Quality: One Size Definitely Does Not Fit All

The critical technical heart of any camera is its sensor, and here lies one of the biggest divides.

• GX85 sports a Four Thirds type, 16MP CMOS sensor measuring 17.3x13mm, paired with the Venus Engine processor. This sensor size is significantly larger than the superzoom’s tiny 1/2.3" sensor (6.08x4.56mm). The result? Sharper images, more dynamic range, and improved noise performance at higher ISOs.

• ZS20 has a 14MP 1/2.3" sensor typical of superzooms from its generation. While the sensor resolution looks respectable, the smaller physical size often results in weaker low-light handling, lower dynamic range, and less depth - all hallmarks of smaller sensors.

In real-world shooting, the GX85’s bigger sensor means better detail, more accurate colors, and less grain - especially in dim conditions or shots requiring post-processing flexibility. The ZS20 trades image quality for an extraordinary 20x optical zoom (24-480 mm equivalent focal length), an unbeatable option for those needing reach in a pocketable camera.

Viewfinder and Screen: Where to Compose Your Shots

• GX85 is equipped with a crisp 2764-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) that provides 100% coverage and a magnification comfortable for extended use. For me, this makes an immense difference in bright sunlight and for precise framing.

• The ZS20, like many compact superzooms, does not feature any EVF, relying solely on its fixed 3-inch LCD screen with 460k-dot resolution. It’s functional but nowhere near the detail or utility of the GX85’s tilting touchscreen with 1040k-dot resolution.

For street photography or anytime you want to isolate yourself from distractions, the GX85’s EVF is a big win. The ZS20’s reliance on the rear screen means some struggle outdoors under bright reflections.

Panasonic GX85 front Panasonic GX85 screen back Panasonic ZS20 front Panasonic ZS20 screen back

Real-World Image Samples: Portraits to Landscapes

Having spent days shooting both cameras side by side, I can attest to their distinctive personalities.

• Portraits: The GX85’s larger sensor and Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem mean creamy bokeh and better skin tone rendering. Its autofocus supports face detection and continuous AF for eye catching portraits that really pop. The ZS20 feels flat due to the tiny sensor and fixed lens with narrower apertures - don’t expect dreamy backgrounds here.

• Landscapes: While the ZS20 gets decent shots in good light, the GX85 shines with its superior dynamic range and RAW support. Its 16MP sensor packs more detail and latitude for post-processing - essentials for landscape enthusiasts who like to push contrast and colors.

• Wildlife: The ZS20’s 480mm equivalent zoom is crazy good for distant wildlife - but it’s handheld and digital zoom can be noisy. The GX85 relies on telephoto lenses you buy separately; it’s more versatile but more expensive. Focus speed on the GX85 is noticeably snappier and better at tracking moving animals.

• Sports: The GX85’s 8fps burst and continuous autofocus can capture fast action fairly well, but lacking an optical viewfinder and professional-grade AF systems, it’s best for casual sports photography. The ZS20’s burst speed is even higher (10fps) but with more limited AF options and fixed lens, which impacts sharpness on fast-moving subjects.

• Street photography: GX85’s compact but capable body with EVF and silent electronic shutter is ideal for street shooters wanting discretion. The ZS20 wins for absolute discretion and portability but compromises on image quality and controls.

• Macro and Close-ups: The ZS20 supports macro down to 3cm, which is handy for casual close-ups. GX85 with a good macro lens of course dominates in sharpness and focus precision, backed by focus stacking and bracketing features.

• Night and Astrophotography: Here the bigger Four Thirds sensor and 5-axis in-body stabilization in the GX85 make it a clear winner. The ZS20’s small sensor leads to much noisier images at high ISO, making night scenes disappointing.

Tech Breakdown: Autofocus, Stabilization, and More

In my lab testing sessions and field trials, the Panasonic GX85 impresses with:

• Autofocus: 49 contrast-detection points, face detection, AF tracking, continuous AF with very reliable accuracy. It also offers post-focus and focus bracketing options for creative control.

• Stabilization: Panasonic’s sensor-based 5-axis IS in the GX85 is a game changer, allowing handheld shots at slower shutter speeds, smooth video, and sharper images in tricky low light.

• Burst Shooting: 8fps mechanical shutter is solid for enthusiasts.

• Video: The GX85 shoots true 4K UHD at 30p and 24p, with 4K photo modes for extracting high-res stills - features that content creators will delight in. Audio and mic input options are basic but workable.

Meanwhile, the ZS20 brings:

• AF system: simpler with 23 contrast detection points, lacks face or eye detection.

• Stabilization: optical image stabilization in the lens, effective for handheld zoom shots.

• Burst mode: 10fps but more limited AF tracking.

• Video: Full HD 1080p at 60fps, solid for casual video but no 4K.

Genre-Specific Scores: Which Camera Excels Where?

I scored both cameras across photography types on exposure, focus, sharpness, handling, and flexibility:

Practical Considerations: Battery, Connectivity, and Lens Ecosystem

• Battery Life: The GX85 lasts about 290 shots per charge (CIPA-rated), respectable for mirrorless but plan for spares if you’re shooting all day. The ZS20 offers slightly fewer shots around 260, but the lightweight compact design means carrying extras isn’t that painful.

• Lens Selection and Compatibility: The GX85 uses the Micro Four Thirds lens mount - an extensive, mature lineup from Panasonic, Olympus, and third parties offers superb glass from ultra-wide to super-telephoto. This means you can tailor it to any style or budget.

The ZS20 is a fixed-lens camera - you get what’s built-in: a 20x superzoom with F3.3-6.4 aperture, perfect for casual photography but with all lens choices baked in.

• Connectivity: GX85 includes built-in Wi-Fi for quick image transfers and remote control (Bluetooth missing), while the ZS20 has no wireless connections but does pace itself with built-in GPS - a nice touch for travelers tagging locations.

Who Should Choose What? Breaking It Down by Use Case and Wallet

• If you want the ultimate image quality, manual control, and expandability and are willing to invest in lenses and learn more about photography, the Panasonic GX85 is your best bet. It’s ideal for enthusiasts, hybrid shooters mixing stills and 4K video, and those who want a capable second body without breaking the bank.

• If you’re more of a casual photographer looking for a pocket-sized, affordable superzoom for travel, family snaps, and long reach without fuss - the Panasonic ZS20 remains a charming, easy-to-use pick. You sacrifice image quality and control, but gain portability and zoom versatility on a budget (often half the GX85’s price).

Pros and Cons Summary

Wrapping It Up: My Final Verdict After Hands-On Testing

Having tested both puts me squarely in the camp of “it depends” on what you want from your camera.

• For the budding enthusiast who craves image quality, creative control, and video abilities, the Panasonic GX85 is a phenomenal, modern mirrorless system that punches way above its price. It rewards patience and growth as you build your lens collection and skills.

• For the casual shooter, wanderluster, or budget-conscious traveler wanting something that fits in a small bag and can zoom way out without lenses to swap, the Panasonic ZS20 is still a practical, surprisingly capable companion - so long as you adjust expectations around picture quality and low-light performance.

I hope this comparison helped you differentiate these distinct Panasonic offerings better - and find your perfect photographic partner.

If you want to explore further, here are some close-up shots of the intricate controls and details to ponder:

Panasonic GX85 front Panasonic GX85 screen back Panasonic ZS20 front Panasonic ZS20 screen back

Thanks for reading - happy shooting!