Panasonic SZ1 vs Panasonic ZS40

In this article, we are comparing the Panasonic SZ1 vs Panasonic ZS40, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are offered by Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ1 (16MP) and the ZS40 (18MP) is very comparable and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ1 was brought out 24 months earlier than the ZS40 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SZ1 grades against the ZS40 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ1 provides outer dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS40 has dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic SZ1 vs Panasonic ZS40 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have at the time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ1 against the ZS40.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ1 and ZS40 is 95 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements just by seeing specifications. The photograph below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ1 and ZS40.

To sum up, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS40 to show more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics far more aggressively. The older SZ1 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.