Panasonic LZ30 vs Sony HX80

Here is a comprehensive analysis of the Panasonic LZ30 versus Sony HX80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the LZ30 (16MP) and the HX80 (18MP) is very close and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The LZ30 was unveiled 4 years earlier than the HX80 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic LZ30 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony HX80 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the LZ30 matches up against the HX80 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic LZ30 Gallery & Sony HX80 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera often, you should factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic LZ30 comes with exterior dimensions of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") and a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) whilst the Sony HX80 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") along with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

See the Panasonic LZ30 versus Sony HX80 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the LZ30 against the HX80.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the LZ30 and HX80 is 66 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing purely by looking through technical specs. The photograph here may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the LZ30 and HX80.

As you have seen, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You can expect to see the Sony HX80 to result in greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics more aggressively. The older LZ30 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.