Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax VS20

The following is a thorough review of the Panasonic SZ8 versus Pentax VS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the SZ8 (16MP) and the VS20 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras boast the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ8 was launched 24 months after the VS20 which makes them a generation away from one another. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short overview of how the SZ8 grades vs the VS20 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 and Pentax Optio VS20. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic SZ8 has got outside dimensions 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 Pentax VS20 has proportions of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") having a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic SZ8 versus Pentax VS20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the SZ8 compared to the VS20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ8 and VS20 is 94 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor dimensions just by looking at specs. The picture underneath should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ8 and VS20.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras come with the identical sensor size and the identical resolution and you should expect similar quality of files though you really should take the release date of the products into consideration. The younger SZ8 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.