Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony HX99

On this page, we are analyzing the Panasonic ZS20 and Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There is a considerable difference among the image resolutions of the ZS20 (14MP) and HX99 (18MP) and the ZS20 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) offer totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The ZS20 was revealed 7 years earlier than the HX99 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a detailed comparison, here is a brief view of how the ZS20 grades vs the HX99 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery & Sony HX99 Gallery.

In case you're going to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS20 offers outside 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 HX99 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") with a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS20 and Sony HX99 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the ZS20 versus the HX99.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the ZS20 and HX99 is 92 and 91 respectively.

Generally, its difficult to see the difference in sensor dimensions only by researching specifications. The pic here should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS20 and HX99.

Plainly, each of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The ZS20 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Sony HX99 will provide you with greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos more aggressively. The more aged ZS20 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.