Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax RZ18

Below, we are evaluating the Panasonic SZ8 versus Pentax RZ18, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SZ8 (16MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is fairly well matched and they use the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ8 was unveiled 2 years later than the RZ18 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a quick view of how the SZ8 scores versus the RZ18 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ8 offers outer measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Pentax RZ18 has sizing of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Check the Panasonic SZ8 versus Pentax RZ18 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ8 vs the RZ18.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SZ8 and RZ18 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Often, its tough to see the difference between sensor measurements simply by checking specs. The visual below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ8 and RZ18.

All in all, both of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the exact same megapixels and you can expect similar quality of photos although you will want to take the launch date of the products into consideration. The newer SZ8 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.