Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony HX1

Here is a extended overview of the Panasonic ZS20 and Sony HX1, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Sony. There exists a substantial gap between the image resolutions of the ZS20 (14MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the ZS20 (1/2.3") and HX1 (1/2.4") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The ZS20 was announced 3 years later than the HX1 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going straight to a in depth comparison, here is a brief overview of how the ZS20 grades versus the HX1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery & Sony HX1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS20 features outside measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Sony HX1 has measurements of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") having a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS20 and Sony HX1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you use at that time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the ZS20 and the HX1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS20 and HX1 is 92 and 67 respectively.

Quite often, it is very tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reviewing a spec sheet. The photograph underneath might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS20 and HX1.

Clearly, each of the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The ZS20 having a larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field simpler and the Panasonic ZS20 will offer you extra detail with its extra 5 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics way more aggressively. The more recent ZS20 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.