Panasonic ZS7 vs Sony S980

Following is a in-depth analysis of the Panasonic ZS7 versus Sony S980, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS7 (12MP) and the S980 (12MP) is fairly well matched and both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS7 was announced 2 years after the S980 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the ZS7 grades against the S980 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS7 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera frequently, you'll need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS7 provides outside measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) and the Sony S980 has sizing of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS7 versus Sony S980 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the ZS7 and the S980.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS7 and S980 is 91 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizes purely by looking at specs. The pic below will give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS7 and S980.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the exact same MP and you should expect similar quality of photographs but you need to consider the release date of the products into consideration. The younger ZS7 is going to have an edge in sensor innovation.