Panasonic ZS20 vs Sony WX500

Lets take a closer look at the Panasonic ZS20 versus Sony WX500, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the ZS20 (14MP) and WX500 (18MP) but they come with the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS20 was brought out 4 years earlier than the WX500 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a quick summary of how the ZS20 grades against the WX500 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery and Sony WX500 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS20 features external measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Sony WX500 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") and a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS20 versus Sony WX500 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the ZS20 vs the WX500.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS20 and WX500 is 92 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes only by looking through specs. The pic underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS20 and WX500.

All in all, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Sony WX500 to result in extra detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The more aged ZS20 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.