Panasonic SZ7 vs Panasonic ZS45

Following is a thorough review of the Panasonic SZ7 and Panasonic ZS45, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are produced by Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ7 (14MP) and the ZS45 (16MP) is relatively well matched and they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ7 was launched 4 years before the ZS45 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple summation of how the SZ7 matches up against the ZS45 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ7 Gallery & Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera, you'll need to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ7 features external measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS45 has sizing of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

See the Panasonic SZ7 and Panasonic ZS45 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ7 versus the ZS45.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ7 and ZS45 is 95 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reading through technical specs. The pic here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ7 and ZS45.

As you have seen, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Panasonic ZS45 to give you extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged SZ7 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.