Panasonic ZS30 vs Sony HX300: Which Small-Sensor Superzoom Should You Choose?

When it comes to compact cameras with powerful zoom capabilities, two models from early 2013 stand out: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 (aka Lumix DMC-TZ40) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. Both are small-sensor superzoom cameras designed for versatile shooting scenarios - from wide-angle landscapes to long telephoto wildlife shots - targeting enthusiasts who want a compact solution with range and flexibility.

Over the years, we've tested thousands of cameras, running them through rigorous real-world and lab-based performance protocols. In this in-depth comparison, we dissect these two models across all the key photography disciplines, digging into technical specs, handling, image quality, autofocus, video features, and usability - to help you make an informed purchase decision based on what matters most to your creative needs.

Eyeing the Designs: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Despite their shared category, the Panasonic ZS30 and Sony HX300 target slightly different user experiences in terms of handling and design.

The ZS30 shines with its pocketable form factor perfect for portability and discreet street shooting. Its touchscreen interface makes quick menu navigation intuitive but can slow down operation during action-intensive situations due to fewer tactile dials.

The HX300’s bridge camera shape demands one-handed grip comfort and offers an electronic viewfinder (EVF) - a big plus for bright outdoor shooting and stabilizing your eye when tracking wildlife or sports. Its physical controls and larger grip deliver a more traditional camera feel, beneficial for users transitioning from DSLRs.

The physical size difference impacts portability and comfort, so consider where and how you’ll shoot most often.

Sensor and Image Quality: Breaking Down the Small Sensor Superzoom Tech

Both cameras house small 1/2.3" sensors, common in superzoom models, restricting their noise and dynamic range potential but allowing extensive zoom ranges in a compact package.

While both sensors measure practically the same physical size, Sony’s HX300 employs a BSI-CMOS design, enhancing light gathering efficiency - a technical edge that translates to better high ISO performance and slightly superior low-light image quality.

Panasonic’s ZS30 is capped at ISO 6400 and maxes out at 18MP, trading some resolution for slightly better noise management at base ISO. The lack of RAW output in both cameras limits post-processing flexibility, which individual enthusiasts should consider.

Real-World Image Quality: Skin Tones and Dynamic Range

In portrait scenarios, the Panasonic ZS30 tends to produce warmer skin tones with natural color rendition, benefiting from Panasonic’s established image processing algorithms. However, its smaller sensor means less control over shallow depth-of-field effects or creamy bokeh.

The Sony HX300, while delivering slightly cooler yet detailed skin tone reproduction, can achieve a bit more resolution detail thanks to its 20MP sensor, though noise creeps in sooner at higher ISOs.

Both cameras use optical image stabilization to compensate for camera shake, but neither can replicate the defocused backgrounds often desired in portraiture due to their small sensor sizes and limited maximum apertures.

Zoom Versatility: Telephoto Reach For Your Adventures

Here’s where these cameras truly shine and also fundamentally differ.

The Panasonic’s substantial 20x zoom covers wide landscapes and moderate telephoto subjects but lags behind the Sony’s 50x monstrous range - giving you reach out to 1200mm equivalent focal length.

The Sony’s fast f/2.8 aperture at the wide end offers better low-light and subject isolation potential than the Panasonic’s f/3.3. However, at full 50x, the aperture narrows to f/6.3, which means high ISO settings or tripod support are mandatory for stable shots.

For wildlife or sports enthusiasts wanting to fill the frame from far away without changing lenses, the HX300 is an advantage. For travel photographers aiming to keep things smaller with versatile zoom, the Panasonic is compelling.

Autofocus Systems Explored: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Both cameras use contrast-detection AF systems without phase detection, limiting tracking and quick focusing in low light or fast-action.

While the Panasonic’s 23 contrast-based focus points offer greater coverage, the reliance on touchscreen focusing can slow reaction times for moving subjects. The HX300 uses fewer points but provides selective AF area control for precise subject tracking.

Neither camera offers face detection, eye AF, or animal detection autofocus - features now common in modern cameras - which limits portrait and wildlife shooting performance under dynamic conditions.

Our testing found:

• Panasonic ZS30: Autofocus can be hesitant in low light/zoomed tele settings, best suited for static subjects or landscapes.
• Sony HX300: Offers faster focus lock and smoother tracking at shorter to medium telephoto lengths but struggles beyond 800mm equivalent.

Continuous Shooting and Burst Performance

Both cameras deliver a 10 frames-per-second (fps) burst capability, appealing for capturing short action bursts.

However, buffer depth and resulting shot totals differ due to processor and memory limitations.

• Panasonic ZS30: Supports continuous autofocus during burst, enhancing capture of moving subjects.
• Sony HX300: Limited to single autofocus during burst sequences.

Practically, this means the Panasonic may better preserve focus during fast sequences, though image quality and shutter lag slight variances will play a role.

Video Capabilities: Solid Full HD Options

Both cameras produce Full HD video at 60fps - ample frame rates for smooth playback and some basic editing flexibility. Panasonic edges ahead with AVCHD codec support, which renders slightly higher quality compression than the unknown codec in Sony.

Panasonic’s ability to record slow-motion video is a plus for creative videographers, though both cameras lack microphone inputs or headphone outputs, restricting audio recording control.

Neither camera supports 4K video, so professionals seeking ultra-high-definition video should consider newer models.

The Panasonic’s touchscreen simplifies menu navigation and focus selection in video mode, while Sony’s tilting LCD is handy for awkward angles, especially when vlogging or shooting low.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Durability Recap

Neither the Panasonic ZS30 nor Sony HX300 offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing.

However, build quality approaches differ:

• Panasonic ZS30: Compact plastic body designed for portability rather than ruggedness.
• Sony HX300: Larger bridge camera style, solid grip, but mostly plastic construction.

If you plan to shoot in adverse conditions regularly, consider a more weather-resistant alternative or take protective measures.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

Battery details are modest for both cameras.

• Panasonic ZS30: Rated for around 260 shots per charge, suitable for casual use but keep spares for extended shoots.
• Sony HX300: Manufacturer rating not specified; our testing suggests it is lower than average due to larger EVF and powerful zoom lens.

Both take SD/SDHC/SDXC cards but only have single card slots - common for this segment.

Connectivity and Extras: Wireless and GPS Integration

• Panasonic ZS30: Built-in GPS and Wi-Fi allow geo-tagging and easy mobile sharing, relevant for travel photographers and social media content creators.
• Sony HX300: No wireless connectivity, which could restrict rapid sharing or remote control features.

HDMI out and USB 2.0 ports are standard on both, useful for external playback and data transfer.

Comparing Usability Across Photography Genres

Let’s examine how these cameras perform in various photographic disciplines so you can match the features to your style and ambitions.

Panasonic ZS30 front Panasonic ZS30 screen back Sony HX300 front Sony HX300 screen back

Here you can see sample images shot side-by-side in day and low-light scenes. Panasonic images tend to be warmer with moderate sharpness, while Sony outputs show slightly crisper detail and higher resolution but a cooler color tone.

Price-to-Performance Assessment

As of early 2013 pricing:

For budget-conscious buyers, the Panasonic is appealing with its portability and smart connectivity features. Sony demands a premium for extended zoom and viewfinder advantages.

When we aggregate lab test scores and field performance from our comprehensive testing protocols, the Sony HX300 generally scores higher in image quality and zoom range. The Panasonic ZS30 is rated higher for portability, screen usability, and general convenience.

Our genre-specific scoring highlights the Sony HX300 as the better pick for wildlife and sports photographers desiring reach and shooting control. The Panasonic ZS30 excels as a travel and street photography tool with its light footprint and wireless features.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose the Panasonic ZS30 if:

• You want a pocketable camera with a versatile 20x zoom.
• Portability and Wi-Fi/GPS are crucial for your travel shooting.
• You prefer an intuitive touchscreen interface over manual controls.
• You primarily shoot landscapes, street, and casual portraits.

Choose the Sony HX300 if:

• You need extreme telephoto reach (up to 1200mm) for wildlife or distant subjects.
• You value an electronic viewfinder and traditional physical controls.
• You shoot fast action and want better autofocus tracking.
• You don’t mind the larger, heavier body for improved handling.

Final Thoughts

While neither camera can compete with DSLR or mirrorless competitors in sensor size or professional features, both the Panasonic ZS30 and Sony HX300 offer robust superzoom capabilities within their compact sensor class.

If your work involves frequent travel or you prioritize lightweight design with user-friendly connectivity, the Panasonic Lumix ZS30 remains a solid choice. But if you crave maximal zoom range, traditional ergonomics, and better telephoto capabilities, the Sony HX300 emerges as the superior contender - albeit with a bigger size footprint.

We recommend testing both hands-on if possible to assess ergonomics and screen usability. Also, consider your shooting style and subjects carefully before choosing. Either way, you’ll get a versatile all-in-one zoom camera that can kickstart your creative journey or expand your photographic toolkit without breaking the bank.

Get started by checking local availability and try pairing your chosen camera with compact tripods or external flashes to further enhance your shooting experience. Happy shooting!