Panasonic XS1 vs Sony WX220

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Panasonic XS1 versus Sony WX220, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Ultracompact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the XS1 (16MP) and the WX220 (18MP) is pretty similar and they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The XS1 was manufactured 13 months prior to the WX220 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera and the Sony WX220 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short summary of how the XS1 grades versus the WX220 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX220. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic XS1 Gallery and Sony WX220 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to travel with your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic XS1 offers outside measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") along with a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs) whilst the Sony WX220 has proportions of 92mm x 52mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.9") with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic XS1 versus Sony WX220 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the XS1 versus the WX220.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the XS1 and WX220 is 97 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions purely by going over technical specs. The image below might provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the XS1 and WX220.

As you have seen, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Sony WX220 to deliver extra detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged XS1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.