Panasonic ZS40 vs Sony HX7V

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS40 and Sony HX7V, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS40 (18MP) and the HX7V (16MP) is relatively well matched and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZS40 was announced 2 years after the HX7V which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a quick view of how the ZS40 scores vs the HX7V with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS40 Gallery and Sony HX7V Gallery.

In case you're going to travel with your camera, you're going to have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS40 provides exterior measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs) and the Sony HX7V has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZS40 and Sony HX7V in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the ZS40 vs the HX7V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS40 and HX7V is 90 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to imagine the gap between sensor dimensions merely by looking at specs. The pic underneath will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS40 and HX7V.

As you can plainly see, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should count on the Panasonic ZS40 to resolve more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The more modern ZS40 provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.