Panasonic ZS20 vs Pentax RZ18

Let's look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic ZS20 and Pentax RZ18, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZS20 (14MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras provide the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The ZS20 was unveiled 8 months later than the RZ18 so they are both of a similar age. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the ZS20 grades versus the RZ18 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS20 provides physical measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has specifications of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS20 and Pentax RZ18 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the ZS20 compared to the RZ18.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS20 and RZ18 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements only by viewing specifications. The graphic here might provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS20 and RZ18.

Plainly, both cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You can expect the Pentax RZ18 to result in greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The newer ZS20 provides an advantage in sensor innovation.