Panasonic LZ30 vs Sigma DP2

Its time to examine more closely at the Panasonic LZ30 versus Sigma DP2, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by brands Panasonic and Sigma. There is a huge difference between the sensor resolutions of the LZ30 (16MP) and DP2 (5MP) and the LZ30 (1/2.3") and DP2 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor dimensions.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The LZ30 was revealed 3 years later than the DP2 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LZ30 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sigma DP2 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the LZ30 matches up against the DP2 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30 and Sigma DP2. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic LZ30 Gallery and Sigma DP2 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic LZ30 comes with physical measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") with a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) while the Sigma DP2 has proportions of 113mm x 60mm x 56mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.2") and a weight of 280 grams (0.62 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic LZ30 versus Sigma DP2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the LZ30 versus the DP2.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the LZ30 and DP2 is 66 and 86 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualise the difference between sensor measurements just by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the LZ30 and DP2.

As you can see, both the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The LZ30 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic LZ30 will give more detail because of its extra 11MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more recent LZ30 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.