Panasonic ZS35 vs Sony HX99

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Panasonic ZS35 and Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS35 (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is pretty similar but the ZS35 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) possess totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The ZS35 was brought out 5 years prior to the HX99 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a quick summary of how the ZS35 matches up against the HX99 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS35 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS35 Gallery & Sony HX99 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS35 has got physical dimensions of 107mm x 62mm x 32mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 305 grams (0.67 lbs) and the Sony HX99 has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS35 and Sony HX99 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the ZS35 and the HX99.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS35 and HX99 is 89 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading technical specs. The graphic below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS35 and HX99.

As you have seen, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS35 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Sony HX99 will offer greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older ZS35 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.