Panasonic SZ8 vs Panasonic ZS1

Here is a complete assessment of the Panasonic SZ8 vs Panasonic ZS1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras and both are designed by Panasonic. There is a large difference among the image resolutions of the SZ8 (16MP) and ZS1 (10MP) and the SZ8 (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") boast different sensor size.

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The SZ8 was revealed 4 years later than the ZS1 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a short summation of how the SZ8 matches up vs the ZS1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The full galleries are available at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery & Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ8 enjoys outer dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS1 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic SZ8 vs Panasonic ZS1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use at that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the SZ8 compared to the ZS1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ8 and ZS1 is 94 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizing simply by researching specs. The graphic here will give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ8 and ZS1.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ8 with its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic SZ8 will provide you with more detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more modern SZ8 should have an advantage in sensor technology.