Panasonic ZS8 vs Sony A33

Below is a detailed overview of the Panasonic ZS8 and Sony A33, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS8 (14MP) and the A33 (14MP) is fairly comparable but the ZS8 (1/2.3") and A33 (APS-C) feature different sensor sizing.

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The ZS8 was manufactured 11 months later than the A33 so they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera and the Sony A33 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the ZS8 scores against the A33 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 & Sony SLT-A33. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery & Sony A33 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS8 enjoys exterior dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) whilst the Sony A33 has proportions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") along with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS8 and Sony A33 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are employing at the time. The following is the front view size comparison of the ZS8 and the A33.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS8 and A33 is 92 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to visualize the gap in sensor measurements just by seeing specs. The graphic below will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS8 and A33.

All in all, each of these cameras have got the exact same resolution but different sensor measurements. The ZS8 uses the smaller sensor which will make achieving bokeh harder. The more modern ZS8 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.