Panasonic ZS7 vs Sony HX99

Below is a extended analysis of the Panasonic ZS7 and Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There exists a huge gap between the sensor resolutions of the ZS7 (12MP) and HX99 (18MP) and the ZS7 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS7 was launched 8 years earlier than the HX99 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick summation of how the ZS7 grades versus the HX99 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS7 Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS7 features physical measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) and the Sony HX99 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") along with a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS7 and Sony HX99 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS7 against the HX99.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS7 and HX99 is 91 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to see the gap between sensor measurements simply by going over technical specs. The visual underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS7 and HX99.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS7 due to its larger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Sony HX99 will deliver extra detail utilizing its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older ZS7 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.