Panasonic ZS8 vs Sony NEX-6

Here, we will be matching up the Panasonic ZS8 and Sony NEX-6, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the ZS8 (14MP) and the NEX-6 (16MP) is pretty similar but the ZS8 (1/2.3") and NEX-6 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The ZS8 was announced 20 months prior to the NEX-6 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-6 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the ZS8 scores against the NEX-6 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 & Sony Alpha NEX-6. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery & Sony NEX-6 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera, you have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS8 offers outside measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) while the Sony NEX-6 has specifications of 120mm x 67mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.6" x 1.7") and a weight of 345 grams (0.76 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS8 and Sony NEX-6 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the ZS8 and the NEX-6.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS8 and NEX-6 is 92 and 85 respectively.

Generally, its hard to envision the contrast between sensor measurements just by reviewing specifications. The visual underneath will provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS8 and NEX-6.

To sum up, both of those cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The ZS8 with its tinier sensor will make getting shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony NEX-6 will offer extra detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older ZS8 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.