Panasonic LX100 vs Panasonic ZS45

In this article, we are analyzing the Panasonic LX100 versus Panasonic ZS45, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the LX100 (13MP) and the ZS45 (16MP) is fairly close but the LX100 (Four Thirds) and ZS45 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The LX100 was manufactured 3 months prior to the ZS45 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LX100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a short overview of how the LX100 grades vs the ZS45 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic LX100 Gallery & Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic LX100 enjoys external measurements of 115mm x 66mm x 55mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 2.2") and a weight of 393 grams (0.87 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS45 has proportions of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic LX100 versus Panasonic ZS45 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the LX100 and the ZS45.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the LX100 and ZS45 is 83 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to visualise the difference in sensor measurements merely by researching a spec sheet. The graphic below will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the LX100 and ZS45.

Clearly, each of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The LX100 featuring a larger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic ZS45 will result in more detail due to its extra 3 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop images far more aggressively.