Panasonic SZ8 vs Panasonic ZR1

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic SZ8 and Panasonic ZR1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are built by Panasonic. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the SZ8 (16MP) and ZR1 (12MP) but they come with the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ8 was introduced 4 years later than the ZR1 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the SZ8 grades versus the ZR1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery and Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ8 provides external measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR1 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check the Panasonic SZ8 and Panasonic ZR1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select at that time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the SZ8 and the ZR1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ8 and ZR1 is 94 and 94 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to see the gap between sensor sizing merely by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic below will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ8 and ZR1.

As you can see, both of those cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Panasonic SZ8 to give more detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images much more aggressively. The fresher SZ8 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.