Panasonic SZ7 vs Pentax VS20

Lets take a deeper look at the Panasonic SZ7 and Pentax VS20, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the SZ7 (14MP) and the VS20 (16MP) is very comparable and they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ7 was launched at a similar time to the VS20 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a short highlight of how the SZ7 scores versus the VS20 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7 and Pentax Optio VS20. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic SZ7 Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ7 features physical measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Pentax VS20 has measurements of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") having a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ7 and Pentax VS20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the SZ7 against the VS20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ7 and VS20 is 95 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, its difficult to see the difference in sensor measurements purely by seeing technical specs. The graphic here should provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ7 and VS20.

As you can tell, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Pentax VS20 to show greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a little more aggressively.