Panasonic ZS7 vs Sony HX80

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Panasonic ZS7 vs Sony HX80, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Sony. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the ZS7 (12MP) and HX80 (18MP) but they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZS7 was introduced 5 years prior to the HX80 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a thorough comparison, below is a quick summary of how the ZS7 matches up vs the HX80 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS7 Gallery and Sony HX80 Gallery.

For those who are going to travel with your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS7 provides outside measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) while the Sony HX80 has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS7 vs Sony HX80 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the ZS7 compared to the HX80.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS7 and HX80 is 91 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, its difficult to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions just by reading specs. The picture underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS7 and HX80.

All in all, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You should anticipate the Sony HX80 to offer extra detail using its extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged ZS7 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.