Panasonic ZS1 vs Sony HX7V

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic ZS1 and Sony HX7V, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There is a considerable difference among the sensor resolutions of the ZS1 (10MP) and HX7V (16MP) and the ZS1 (1/2.5") and HX7V (1/2.3") provide different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS1 was launched 3 years earlier than the HX7V and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise view of how the ZS1 scores vs the HX7V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery & Sony HX7V Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera, you have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS1 comes with external measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony HX7V has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS1 and Sony HX7V in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using during that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the ZS1 and the HX7V.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS1 and HX7V is 91 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to picture the difference in sensor sizing just by checking out technical specs. The visual below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS1 and HX7V.

As you have seen, the two cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The ZS1 because of its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF more challenging and the Sony HX7V will produce extra detail utilizing its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will let you crop pics more aggressively. The older ZS1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.