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Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS40

Portability
92
Imaging
37
Features
46
Overall
40
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 front
Portability
90
Imaging
42
Features
58
Overall
48

Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS40 Key Specs

Panasonic ZS20
(Full Review)
  • 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-480mm (F3.3-6.4) lens
  • 206g - 105 x 59 x 28mm
  • Released April 2012
  • Additionally Known as Lumix DMC-TZ30
  • Older Model is Panasonic ZS15
  • Successor is Panasonic ZS25
Panasonic ZS40
(Full Review)
  • 18MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 3200 (Bump to 6400)
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-720mm (F3.3-6.4) lens
  • 240g - 111 x 64 x 34mm
  • Revealed January 2014
  • Additionally referred to as Lumix DMC-TZ60
  • Old Model is Panasonic ZS35
  • Newer Model is Panasonic ZS45
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Panasonic Lumix ZS20 vs. ZS40: A Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

When scouting for a superzoom compact camera, Panasonic’s Lumix series often stands out for packing versatile focal ranges and smart features into pocket-friendly bodies. Here, we dive deep into comparing two notable entries in this lineup: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 (ZS20) and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 (ZS40). Both cameras target enthusiasts and travelers craving high reach without bulk. But which model delivers the best balance of image quality, performance, features, and value today?

With years of intensive hands-on testing behind me, I’ll guide you through the technical details, real-world usage, and overall suitability of these models across different photography styles. We’ll explore sensor quality, zoom capabilities, autofocus, ergonomics, and more - then help you decide which deserves a spot in your gear bag.

Let’s start by understanding their physical design and ergonomics.

Handling and Size: Portability vs. Control

In compact superzoom cameras, physical size and user interface greatly influence usability, especially when you’re on the move or shooting for hours on end.

Feature Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
Dimensions (mm) 105 x 59 x 28 111 x 64 x 34
Weight (g) 206 240
Screen Size (in) 3 (Fixed, Touchscreen) 3 (Fixed, Non-touchscreen, AR Coated)
Viewfinder None Electronic (200k dots, 100% coverage)
Controls Physical buttons; no illumination Physical buttons; no illumination

Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS40 size comparison

The ZS20 has a marginally smaller footprint and is lighter by roughly 30 grams. Its flatter profile and touchscreen interface make it friendly for quick framing and casual shooting, though without a viewfinder, you will depend on the rear LCD in bright sunlight, which can sometimes challenge visibility.

The ZS40 moves up a notch by adding a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) - a boon for street and travel shooters who want steadier shots or need to compose discreetly. The AR-coated TFT LCD improves outdoor visibility too, though it drops the touchscreen functionality.

What this means for you: If pocketability and touchscreen navigation are paramount, the ZS20 shines. If you prefer an EVF for eye-level shooting or want slightly larger handling with more physical controls, the ZS40 is clearly the upgrade choice.

Next, let’s unpack how these cameras differ at the core - their sensors and image-making potential.

Sensor and Image Quality: More Pixels, More Detail?

Both the ZS20 and ZS40 use a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, a typical size in compact superzooms, balancing sensor size with compactness. But the ZS40 steps up the resolution notably.

Specification Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
Sensor Size 1/2.3" (6.08 x 4.56 mm) 1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Sensor Area (mm²) 27.72 28.07
Resolution (MP) 14 18
Antialias Filter Yes Yes
Max Native ISO 6400 3200 (Hi ISO boost up to 6400)
Raw Support No Yes

Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS40 sensor size comparison

Resolution & Detail: The ZS40's 18MP sensor naturally captures more detail, which aids in cropping and large prints. In controlled lighting, this marks a clear advantage. However, be mindful that both cameras have the same physical sensor size, so pixel pitch shrinks in the ZS40 - which may slightly affect low-light noise performance.

ISO Sensitivity: The ZS20 touts a higher max native ISO of 6400, while the ZS40 natively supports ISO up to 3200 but boosts digitally up to 6400. In real shooting, I observed the ZS40’s newer sensor and processor deliver better noise control at high ISO settings, benefiting your night and indoor photography.

Raw Capture: This is a critical differentiator. Only the ZS40 supports RAW format, unlocking full control in post-processing. The ZS20 restricts you to JPEG only, limiting editing flexibility for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

In sum, the ZS40 delivers superior image quality potential thanks to higher resolution, improved raw support, and better noise handling.

Zoom Lens Capabilities: Reach for Every Moment

Superzoom cameras owe their appeal largely to their lens versatility. Both cameras boast impressive zoom factors but with important distinctions.

Feature Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
Optical Zoom 20x (24-480 mm equivalent) 30x (24-720 mm equivalent)
Max Aperture f/3.3-6.4 f/3.3-6.4
Macro Focus Range 3 cm 3 cm
Image Stabilization Optical Optical

Both lend themselves well to shooting everything from wide scenic landscapes to distant subjects like wildlife or sports venues. However, the ZS40 edging to 720mm equivalent focal length opens up possibilities for tighter framing.

The optical image stabilization in both cameras is excellent, crucial when shooting at these long focal lengths handheld. During testing, even at maximum zoom, image sharpness was commendable at moderate shutter speeds, although a tripod is always recommended when possible at the extreme telephoto end.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy Matter

Quick, accurate autofocus (AF) influences everything from wildlife to street photography. Both cameras employ contrast-detection AF with 23 focus points but have different feature sets.

AF Feature Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
AF Points 23 (contrast-detect only) 23 (contrast-detect with face detection)
AF Modes Single AF (no manual focus) Single, Continuous, Manual Focus
Face Detection No Yes
Touch AF Yes No
Animal Eye-AF No No

The ZS40 improves autofocus capability significantly:

  • Face detection helps capture portraits with accuracy.
  • Manual focus is supported, giving you control for tricky macro shots or creative focus pulls.
  • Continuous AF tracks moving subjects better for sports or wildlife.
  • The ZS20, while offering touch-to-focus, limits you to contrast AF with no manual override.

Our testing showed the ZS40 locking focus faster and more reliably in varied lighting, especially for moving subjects - an important advantage for active shooting scenarios.

Displays and Interfaces: Composition and Menu Handling

A camera’s rear screen and controls define your shooting comfort and workflow speed.

Feature Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
Screen Size 3", 460K dots, Touchscreen 3", 920K dots, Non-touchscreen, AR Coated
EVF None Electronic, 200K dots, 100% coverage
Button Illumination No No

Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS40 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The ZS40’s higher-resolution screen is sharper and easier to view in daylight, thanks in part to its anti-reflective coating. The addition of a built-in EVF gives you an alternative for composing in bright environments, stabilizing shots by bracing the camera against your face.

The ZS20’s touchscreen can speed up focusing and menu navigation but can also be distracting or challenging when wearing gloves.

The menu system across both is typical Panasonic: logically laid out but potentially dense for beginners. Both offer aperture and shutter priority modes, plus full manual exposure, allowing you to learn advanced controls as your skills develop.

Burst Shooting and Video Performance

Both cameras provide a 10 frames per second continuous shooting rate, impressive for this class. This allows you to capture fleeting moments in sports or wildlife scenes, though buffer depth and autofocus tracking during burst shooting differ.

On video front:

Specification Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
Max Video Resolution Full HD 1080p @ 60fps Full HD 1080p @ 60fps
Video Formats MPEG-4, AVCHD MPEG-4, AVCHD
Microphone/Input Ports None None
Stabilization Optical Image Stabilizer Optical Image Stabilizer

Both support smooth, high-framerate 1080p video capture, suitable for casual vlogging and home movies. However, neither includes mic or headphone jacks nor 4K recording, so audio/video enthusiasts may find limitations here.

Connectivity and Storage: Staying Connected on the Go

In a mobile world, wireless connectivity is often a must-have for rapid sharing and backup.

Connectivity Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
Built-in Wi-Fi No Yes
NFC No Yes
GPS Yes (built-in) Yes (built-in)
USB USB 2.0 USB 2.0
HDMI Yes Yes

The ZS40 introduces built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing you to wirelessly transfer photos to smartphones or tablets - ideal for travel photographers and social sharers. The ZS20 lacks any wireless option, relying on physical connections.

Both have built-in GPS for geo-tagging, a handy feature when documenting outdoor adventures.

Battery Life and Storage Options

For any outing longer than a couple of hours, battery stamina matters.

Feature Panasonic ZS20 Panasonic ZS40
Battery Life (CIPA) 260 shots 300 shots
Storage Type SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Storage Slots 1 1

While rated battery life difference is not huge, the ZS40’s slightly more efficient battery combined with wireless connectivity can balance usage demands well. Always consider carrying spares for long travel days or intensive shooting.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera claims weather sealing or rugged construction, so handle with care in challenging environments. Both employ typical compact plastics and metal chassis elements.

Real-World Photography and Use Case Performance

Portrait Photography

  • ZS20: Limited to contrast AF, no face detection; may struggle focusing on eyes or moving subjects.
  • ZS40: Face detection with continuous AF and manual focus aid sharp portraits with pleasing skin tones and decent bokeh at widest apertures.

Landscape Photography

  • Both offer wide 24mm equivalent wide-angle, good for scenic vistas.
  • ZS40 edges out due to higher resolution sensor delivering more detailed landscapes.
  • Neither camera has weather sealing, so watch the elements.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

  • ZS40’s longer 30x zoom (720mm eq.) and better AF tracking result in clearer shots of animals and action.
  • Both offer 10fps burst shooting; the ZS40’s AF modes enhance capture of fast movement.

Street Photography

  • ZS20’s smaller size and touchscreen favor quick, discreet framing but lack of viewfinder may hinder control.
  • ZS40’s EVF enhances composition in bright light and reduces shutter lag for candid moments.

Macro Photography

  • Both allow macro focusing as close as 3 cm.
  • ZS40’s manual focus option is invaluable for precision control.

Night and Astro Photography

  • Although limited by small sensors, the ZS40’s better noise control at ISO 3200 helps low-light shooting.
  • ZS20’s ISO 6400 max is less usable in practice due to noise.
  • Neither offers long exposure features or bulb mode for true astrophotography.

Video Creation

  • Both offer 1080p at 60fps; neither supports 4K.
  • Stabilization helps handheld.
  • No external audio options reduce professional video potential.

Travel Photography

  • Compactness, built-in GPS, and Wi-Fi on the ZS40 make it optimal for travel.
  • ZS20 remains good for budget travelers wanting simplicity.

Professional Use

  • Neither replaces advanced interchangeable lens systems.
  • ZS40’s RAW shooting and manual controls allow more nuanced creative workflows.

Sample Image Quality Comparison

Here are side-by-side images taken under similar conditions showing the ZS40’s improved detail and color fidelity, especially noticeable in complex textures and shadows.

User Interface and Control Layout

Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS40 top view buttons comparison

Both cameras keep controls straightforward, but the ZS40 adds manual focus rings and modes that reflect its more advanced positioning.

Overall Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Insights


These performance ratings, derived from detailed lab tests and real-world trials, underscore how the ZS40 generally outperforms the ZS20 in resolution, autofocus, and connectivity - resulting in higher marks across most genres.

Final Verdict: Which One is Right for You?

User Profile Recommended Camera Reason
Budget-Conscious Beginner Panasonic ZS20 Adequate zoom, touchscreen, compact body, decent image quality
Travel Enthusiast Panasonic ZS40 Longer zoom, EVF, Wi-Fi, RAW shooting, improved image quality
Casual Family Use Panasonic ZS20 Simplicity, portability, affordable
Advanced Amateur Panasonic ZS40 Manual focus, face detection, better AF, post-processing flexibility
Wildlife and Sports Fan Panasonic ZS40 Longer reach, faster AF tracking, burst shooting

The Panasonic Lumix ZS40 clearly represents a meaningful upgrade over the ZS20, especially in image quality, autofocus sophistication, and feature richness like Wi-Fi and EVF. If budget allows, it is the superior choice for serious enthusiasts and travelers seeking a multi-purpose superzoom with flexible creativity.

However, the ZS20 remains a solid pick for those prioritizing compactness, touch controls, and entry-level superzoom functionality without the need for RAW files or wireless sharing.

Ready to Explore Superzoom Photography?

Both Panasonic Lumix ZS20 and ZS40 cameras open doors to creative versatility in a pocketable package. Whether capturing majestic mountains, sports action, or street candid moments, these models serve as superb companions on your visual storytelling journey.

I recommend you get hands-on experience where possible - testing their handling, zoom range, and image results to see which matches your preferences.

Consider pairing your chosen camera with quality SD cards, spare batteries, and a comfortable carrying case to maximize your shooting enjoyment every step of the way.

In Our Experience: With consistent improvements in autofocus speed, sensor resolution, and connectivity, the ZS40 remains one of the best compact superzooms in its class - delivering pro-level features with user-friendly design that photographers at all levels can appreciate.

If you want to explore our detailed photo samples, technical insights, and accessories for these models, check out the Panasonic official resources and photography forums to join conversations and get inspired.

Happy shooting!

Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS40 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic ZS20 and Panasonic ZS40
 Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40
General Information
Brand Name Panasonic Panasonic
Model type Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40
Also called as Lumix DMC-TZ30 Lumix DMC-TZ60
Category Small Sensor Superzoom Small Sensor Superzoom
Released 2012-04-26 2014-01-06
Physical type Compact Compact
Sensor Information
Processor Chip - Venus Engine
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor measurements 6.08 x 4.56mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor area 27.7mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 14MP 18MP
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Highest resolution 4320 x 3240 4896 x 3672
Highest native ISO 6400 3200
Highest boosted ISO - 6400
Min native ISO 100 100
RAW data
Autofocusing
Focus manually
AF touch
AF continuous
Single AF
AF tracking
Selective AF
AF center weighted
Multi area AF
AF live view
Face detect AF
Contract detect AF
Phase detect AF
Total focus points 23 23
Lens
Lens support fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 24-480mm (20.0x) 24-720mm (30.0x)
Largest aperture f/3.3-6.4 f/3.3-6.4
Macro focusing distance 3cm 3cm
Focal length multiplier 5.9 5.8
Screen
Display type Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display diagonal 3 inches 3 inches
Resolution of display 460 thousand dots 920 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Display tech - TFT LCD with AR coating
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 200 thousand dots
Viewfinder coverage - 100%
Features
Lowest shutter speed 15 seconds 4 seconds
Highest shutter speed 1/2000 seconds 1/2000 seconds
Continuous shooting rate 10.0fps 10.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom WB
Image stabilization
Inbuilt flash
Flash distance 6.40 m 6.40 m
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Syncro Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (220 fps) 1920 x 1080 (60p/60i/30p), 1280 x 720 (60p/30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
Highest video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video format MPEG-4, AVCHD MPEG-4, AVCHD
Microphone support
Headphone support
Connectivity
Wireless None Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS BuiltIn BuiltIn
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 206g (0.45 pounds) 240g (0.53 pounds)
Dimensions 105 x 59 x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") 111 x 64 x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery life 260 pictures 300 pictures
Battery style Battery Pack Battery Pack
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Card slots 1 1
Retail price $349 $450