Panasonic LZ20 vs Pentax RZ18

Lets look a bit more closely at the Panasonic LZ20 versus Pentax RZ18, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the LZ20 (16MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is pretty similar and they possess the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The LZ20 was launched 11 months later than the RZ18 and they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the LZ20 scores against the RZ18 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic LZ20 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic LZ20 offers exterior measurements of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") having a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

See the Panasonic LZ20 versus Pentax RZ18 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that moment. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the LZ20 against the RZ18.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the LZ20 and RZ18 is 71 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements just by going over specs. The photograph below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the LZ20 and RZ18.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the identical resolution and you can expect similar quality of photos though you may want to consider the launch date of the products into consideration. The more recent LZ20 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.