Panasonic ZS15 vs Sony A230

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS15 and Sony A230, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS15 (12MP) and the A230 (10MP) is pretty similar but the ZS15 (1/2.3") and A230 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS15 was launched 3 years after the A230 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera and the Sony A230 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a thorough comparison, below is a concise overview of how the ZS15 matches up against the A230 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A230. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS15 Gallery & Sony A230 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS15 enjoys physical dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs) whilst the Sony A230 has proportions of 128mm x 97mm x 68mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.7") along with a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS15 and Sony A230 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the ZS15 vs the A230.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS15 and A230 is 92 and 69 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to envision the contrast between sensor sizes just by reviewing specs. The pic here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS15 and A230.

All in all, both of the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The ZS15 because of its tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Panasonic ZS15 will offer greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs far more aggressively. The more modern ZS15 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.