Panasonic ZS20 vs Pentax W90

Below is a detailed comparison of the Panasonic ZS20 vs Pentax W90, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZS20 (14MP) and the W90 (12MP) is very well matched and both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZS20 was launched 2 years later than the W90 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a full comparison, here is a quick view of how the ZS20 grades versus the W90 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 and Pentax Optio W90. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery and Pentax W90 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS20 features external dimensions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Pentax W90 has measurements of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") along with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS20 vs Pentax W90 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use at the time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the ZS20 against the W90.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the ZS20 and W90 is 92 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to picture the difference between sensor measurements only by looking at a spec sheet. The visual underneath might give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS20 and W90.

As you can see, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS20 to give you extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The fresher ZS20 provides an advantage in sensor tech.