Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony RX1

Below, we are reviewing the Panasonic ZS20 versus Sony RX1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by companies Panasonic and Sony. There is a substantial difference between the sensor resolutions of the ZS20 (14MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the ZS20 (1/2.3") and RX1 (Full frame) feature totally different sensor size.

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The ZS20 was brought out 9 months earlier than the RX1 so they are of a similar age. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a short highlight of how the ZS20 matches up versus the RX1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS20 comes with physical measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Sony RX1 has proportions of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") with a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS20 versus Sony RX1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the ZS20 and the RX1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS20 and RX1 is 92 and 79 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to see the gap between sensor dimensions merely by reviewing specifications. The pic here will help offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS20 and RX1.

To sum up, the two cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The ZS20 featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Sony RX1 will offer extra detail having its extra 10MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The more aged ZS20 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.