Panasonic LZ20 vs Panasonic ZR1

Below is a in depth overview of the Panasonic LZ20 versus Panasonic ZR1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are built by Panasonic. There is a sizable difference between the resolutions of the LZ20 (16MP) and ZR1 (12MP) but both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The LZ20 was announced 3 years later than the ZR1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short summation of how the LZ20 matches up versus the ZR1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic LZ20 Gallery & Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic LZ20 comes with physical dimensions of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs) and the Panasonic ZR1 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic LZ20 versus Panasonic ZR1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the LZ20 against the ZR1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the LZ20 and ZR1 is 71 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements purely by going over specs. The photograph underneath might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the LZ20 and ZR1.

All in all, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You can expect to see the Panasonic LZ20 to offer extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The fresher LZ20 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.