Panasonic SZ8 vs Sony HX99

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Panasonic SZ8 versus Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by companies Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the SZ8 (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is pretty well matched but the SZ8 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) use different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The SZ8 was introduced 5 years prior to the HX99 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a short summation of how the SZ8 matches up against the HX99 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic SZ8 enjoys outside dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Sony HX99 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") with a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ8 versus Sony HX99 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the SZ8 compared to the HX99.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ8 and HX99 is 94 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions only by checking technical specs. The pic here will offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ8 and HX99.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The SZ8 with its bigger sensor is going to make getting bokeh less difficult and the Sony HX99 will give greater detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged SZ8 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.