Panasonic ZS50 vs Sony HX300

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS50 vs Sony HX300, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There is a huge difference between the sensor resolutions of the ZS50 (12MP) and HX300 (20MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The ZS50 was revealed 23 months after the HX300 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS50 being a Compact camera and the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the ZS50 matches up vs the HX300 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS50 Gallery and Sony HX300 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS50 comes with outer dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Sony HX300 has specifications of 130mm x 103mm x 93mm (5.1" x 4.1" x 3.7") with a weight of 623 grams (1.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS50 vs Sony HX300 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS50 versus the HX300.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the ZS50 and HX300 is 90 and 63 respectively.

Often, it's tough to picture the gap between sensor sizes simply by looking at specifications. The image underneath will give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS50 and HX300.

To sum up, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should count on the Sony HX300 to resolve greater detail because of its extra 8MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The younger ZS50 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.