Panasonic ZS45 vs Pentax P80

On this page, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS45 and Pentax P80, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the image resolutions of the ZS45 (16MP) and P80 (12MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The ZS45 was revealed 5 years later than the P80 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summation of how the ZS45 matches up vs the P80 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45 & Pentax Optio P80. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS45 Gallery & Pentax P80 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS45 comes with exterior dimensions of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Pentax P80 has proportions of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") having a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS45 and Pentax P80 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the ZS45 and the P80.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS45 and P80 is 91 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements purely by going through specifications. The photograph underneath may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS45 and P80.

To sum up, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Panasonic ZS45 to show greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The fresher ZS45 should have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.