Panasonic SZ1 vs Sony S980

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Panasonic SZ1 and Sony S980, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There exists a big gap between the sensor resolutions of the SZ1 (16MP) and S980 (12MP) but they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ1 was announced 2 years after the S980 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SZ1 scores vs the S980 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ1 has got outside measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs) while the Sony S980 has sizing of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic SZ1 and Sony S980 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that moment. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ1 and the S980.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ1 and S980 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions just by going over specs. The pic underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ1 and S980.

All in all, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic SZ1 to offer you more detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more modern SZ1 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.