Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony A390

Here is a extended assessment of the Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony A390, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS20 (14MP) and the A390 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the ZS20 (1/2.3") and A390 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS20 was introduced 22 months later than the A390 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera and the Sony A390 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting in to a in depth comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the ZS20 matches up vs the A390 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A390. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery and Sony A390 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS20 has exterior dimensions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Sony A390 has proportions of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") having a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony A390 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS20 compared to the A390.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS20 and A390 is 92 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing just by checking specifications. The graphic underneath may give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS20 and A390.

Plainly, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizing. The ZS20 provides the tinier sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF more challenging. The more recent ZS20 will have an edge in sensor innovation.