Panasonic LZ40 vs Pentax E85

Here is a extensive overview of the Panasonic LZ40 and Pentax E85, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a sizable gap between the sensor resolutions of the LZ40 (20MP) and E85 (12MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The LZ40 was introduced 4 years later than the E85 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic LZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax E85 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the LZ40 matches up versus the E85 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40 & Pentax Optio E85. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic LZ40 Gallery & Pentax E85 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LZ40 features exterior dimensions of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") along with a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs) while the Pentax E85 has measurements of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Check the Panasonic LZ40 and Pentax E85 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the LZ40 compared to the E85.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the LZ40 and E85 is 67 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to picture the gap between sensor sizing only by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the LZ40 and E85.

Clearly, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Panasonic LZ40 to give you extra detail using its extra 8MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more modern LZ40 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.