Panasonic ZS45 vs Pentax H90

Following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic ZS45 vs Pentax H90, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the ZS45 (16MP) and H90 (12MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The ZS45 was launched 5 years after the H90 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the ZS45 grades against the H90 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45 and Pentax Optio H90. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS45 Gallery and Pentax H90 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS45 has got external dimensions of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Pentax H90 has specifications of 101mm x 65mm x 28mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.1") with a weight of 153 grams (0.34 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS45 vs Pentax H90 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the ZS45 against the H90.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS45 and H90 is 91 and 93 respectively.

Typically, it is very difficult to see the gap in sensor sizes only by seeing a spec sheet. The image here may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS45 and H90.

Clearly, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Panasonic ZS45 to provide more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The newer ZS45 will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.