Panasonic ZS8 vs Pentax E85

On this page, we are looking at the Panasonic ZS8 and Pentax E85, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZS8 (14MP) and the E85 (12MP) is fairly close and both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The ZS8 was brought out 23 months later than the E85 making them a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a complete comparison, here is a concise summation of how the ZS8 scores versus the E85 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 & Pentax Optio E85. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery & Pentax E85 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS8 comes with outer measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) whilst the Pentax E85 has dimensions of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS8 and Pentax E85 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view size comparison of the ZS8 and the E85.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS8 and E85 is 92 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through specs. The photograph here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS8 and E85.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You can anticipate the Panasonic ZS8 to result in extra detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images more aggressively. The more recent ZS8 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.