Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony QX100

Here, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS20 versus Sony QX100, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Lens-style by companies Panasonic and Sony. There is a crucial difference among the image resolutions of the ZS20 (14MP) and QX100 (20MP) and the ZS20 (1/2.3") and QX100 (1") offer totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The ZS20 was unveiled 16 months earlier than the QX100 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera and the Sony QX100 being a Lens-style camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a short view of how the ZS20 grades against the QX100 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX100. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery and Sony QX100 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS20 has got exterior 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) whilst the Sony QX100 has sizing of 63mm x 63mm x 56mm (2.5" x 2.5" x 2.2") with a weight of 179 grams (0.39 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZS20 versus Sony QX100 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use during that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the ZS20 compared to the QX100.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS20 and QX100 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its tough to see the contrast in sensor measurements just by seeing specs. The photograph below will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS20 and QX100.

All in all, both the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The ZS20 using its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Sony QX100 will provide extra detail having an extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The older ZS20 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.