Panasonic LZ20 vs Sony HX99

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic LZ20 versus Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the LZ20 (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is relatively well matched but the LZ20 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) feature different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The LZ20 was revealed 7 years earlier than the HX99 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony HX99 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise overview of how the LZ20 grades against the HX99 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic LZ20 Gallery & Sony HX99 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic LZ20 offers outside measurements of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs) while the Sony HX99 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") having a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic LZ20 versus Sony HX99 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the LZ20 compared to the HX99.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the LZ20 and HX99 is 71 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to visualize the gap between sensor sizes simply by looking at technical specs. The image here will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the LZ20 and HX99.

As you can tell, each of the cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The LZ20 using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field simpler and the Sony HX99 will give you extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The more aged LZ20 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.