Panasonic ZS40 vs Sony W830

Below is a complete assessment of the Panasonic ZS40 versus Sony W830, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS40 (18MP) and the W830 (20MP) is pretty close and both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZS40 was announced at a similar time to the W830 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera and the Sony W830 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick view of how the ZS40 grades against the W830 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W830. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS40 Gallery and Sony W830 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS40 provides external dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs) whilst the Sony W830 has dimensions of 93mm x 52mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.0" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 122 grams (0.27 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS40 versus Sony W830 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the ZS40 versus the W830.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS40 and W830 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to picture the contrast in sensor measurements simply by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS40 and W830.

Clearly, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You should expect the Sony W830 to provide you with extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively.