Panasonic ZS40 vs Sony W380

Below, we will be reviewing the Panasonic ZS40 and Sony W380, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Panasonic and Sony. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the ZS40 (18MP) and W380 (14MP) but they use the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS40 was launched 4 years after the W380 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera and the Sony W380 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the ZS40 scores versus the W380 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W380. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS40 Gallery and Sony W380 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry around your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS40 has got exterior dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs) and the Sony W380 has specifications of 91mm x 52mm x 20mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS40 and Sony W380 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the ZS40 versus the W380.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the ZS40 and W380 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes only by researching technical specs. The picture here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS40 and W380.

As you have seen, each of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Panasonic ZS40 to provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The younger ZS40 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.