Panasonic LZ30 vs Pentax P80

Here is a thorough assessment of the Panasonic LZ30 versus Pentax P80, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a considerable gap among the resolutions of the LZ30 (16MP) and P80 (12MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The LZ30 was revealed 3 years later than the P80 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic LZ30 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax P80 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the LZ30 scores versus the P80 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30 & Pentax Optio P80. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic LZ30 Gallery & Pentax P80 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera frequently, you will have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic LZ30 features physical dimensions of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) whilst the Pentax P80 has proportions of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check the Panasonic LZ30 versus Pentax P80 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the LZ30 vs the P80.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the LZ30 and P80 is 66 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing just by going through specs. The photograph below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the LZ30 and P80.

All in all, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You can anticipate the Panasonic LZ30 to show greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more modern LZ30 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.