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Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£45
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.3 µm
  • Weight: 159 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 200 shots

Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.1

Technical Score

10.0%

8.6

User score

Poor
4.1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.9

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.1

Photo Features

18.0%

3.6

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.9

Display & Design

8.0%

2.6

Battery & Power

7.0%

4.5

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
8.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(76)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.2
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    5.6

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.3

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.2
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Weight

    30.0%

    1.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.4
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Price

    20.0%

    10

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    1.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 3.6
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.6

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.2

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.3
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    9.9

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 3.2
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    1.2

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    5.6

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.1
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    1.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • panasonic-lumix-dmc-sz8
panasonic-lumix-dmc-sz8

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 is a slim, entry-level compact camera featuring a 16-megapixel CCD sensor and a versatile 12x optical zoom lens (24–288mm equivalent) with integrated optical image stabilization. Designed for social sharing, it includes built-in Wi-Fi for instant image transfer via QR code and a 3.0-inch 460k-dot LCD screen for easy composition. Key pros include its highly portable, lightweight design (approx. 159g), a wide range of creative filters, and a decent 3cm macro focusing distance. However, common drawbacks include a relatively short battery life of roughly 200 shots, slow autofocus performance, and limited 720p HD video resolution.

Technical Specifications of Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.9

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.1

Photo Features

18.0%

3.6

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.9

Display & Design

8.0%

2.6

Battery & Power

7.0%

4.5

Connectivity & Storage

4.1
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a technical score of 4.15 points, which is lower than 84% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(76)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.6
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a user score of 8.6 points, which is higher than 71.2% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.6

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.2
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.2 points, which is lower than 50.8% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1/2.3"
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 uses a sensor classified as 1/2.3"; it is smaller than the sensor in 60.5% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 38.1% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

16 MP
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a main camera resolution of 16 MP, which is lower than that of 61.8% of cameras and equal to that of 10.2% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

1.3 µm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a main camera pixel size of 1.3 µm which is smaller than in 92.1% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

100
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a base ISO of 100 which is higher than that of 20.3% of cameras and equal to that of 52% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

6,400
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6,400, which is higher than that of 37.3% of cameras and equal to that of 16.2% of cameras.
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Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

9
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has 9 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 67.1% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 26% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1,280 px
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports 1,280 px video recording which is lower quality than that of 71.4% of cameras and equal to that of 18.5% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

28 Mbps
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a video bitrate of 28 Mbps which is lower than that of 51.9% of cameras and equal to that of 8.7% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

Motion JPEG
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

159 g
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 weighs 159 g which is lighter than 86.7% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.2% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

99.8 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a width of 99.8 mm which is narrower than 83.7% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

60.4 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a height of 60.4 mm which is shorter than 77.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.1% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

26.5 mm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a thickness of 26.5 mm which is thinner than 84.2% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

200 shots
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 200 shots, which is shorter than that of 90.5% of cameras and equal to that of 3.8% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

690 mAh
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a battery capacity of 690 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 92% of cameras and equal to those in 0.6% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

yes
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports Wi-Fi. This feature is available on 47.8% of cameras.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 uses Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) which is newer than that of 89.9% of cameras and equal to that of 9.6% of cameras.
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 vs the average camera

  • 59.7% lighter
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is lighter than the average camera (159 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is lighter than the average camera (159 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.159 g vs 395 g
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
    When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
    via Panasonic Image App
    What it is: The ability to control the camera remotely from a smartphone app for shooting, settings, or file transfer.
    When it matters: When you shoot remotely, transfer files on location, or want to control the camera without touching it.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • 0.08 GB more storage
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.
    What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
    When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.08 GB vs 0 GB
  • 20.1 mm narrower
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is narrower than the average camera (99.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is narrower than the average camera (99.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.99.8 mm vs 119.9 mm
  • 10x more popular
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 6.44x cheaper
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is cheaper than the average camera (£45 vs £290).
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is cheaper than the average camera (£45 vs £290).£45 vs £290
  • 19.5 mm thinner
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is thinner than the average camera (26.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is thinner than the average camera (26.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.26.5 mm vs 46 mm
  • 59.7% lighter
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is lighter than the average camera (159 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 20.1 mm narrower
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is narrower than the average camera (99.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 19.5 mm thinner
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is thinner than the average camera (26.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 13.5 mm shorter body
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 is shorter than the average camera (60.4 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • 0.08 GB more storage
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Connectivity & Storage
  • No hot shoe
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Smaller sensor
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • 2.04 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 0.2 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 4.5 fps slower mechanical burst
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.2 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 14 fewer AF points
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • No manual focus mode
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
  • No manual exposure control
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
    No true manual exposure mode.
  • 640 px lower video resolution
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 130 shots shorter battery life
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has shorter battery life than the average camera (200 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • 430 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (690 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • No HDMI output
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
  • Smaller sensor
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • 2.04 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • 4.5 fps slower mechanical burst
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.2 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.2 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.1.2 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • No hot shoe
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
    When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 640 px lower video resolution
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
    What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
    When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3840 px

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.1280 px vs 1920 px
  • 130 shots shorter battery life
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has shorter battery life than the average camera (200 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
    When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 400 shots

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has shorter battery life than the average camera (200 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.200 shots vs 330 shots
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
    What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
    When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 2 microphones

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
  • No RAW photo capture
    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
    What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
    When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.

    Importance: LOW

    Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
76 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8?

  • Compact and lightweight design (159g) makes it highly portable.
  • Versatile 12x optical zoom range (24-288mm equivalent).
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for instant sharing and remote control via smart devices.
  • Effective optical image stabilization to reduce camera shake at long focal lengths.
  • Large 3-inch LCD screen with decent resolution (460k dots).
  • Affordable price point, offering good value for a superzoom compact.

What customers dislike about Panasonic LUMIX DMC SZ8?

  • Average image quality, especially when viewed at full resolution or for large prints.
  • Slow autofocus performance, which can be frustrating for moving subjects.
  • Short battery life, rated at approximately 200 shots per charge.
  • Poor video quality, limited to 720p HD instead of Full HD.
  • Struggles in low-light conditions due to the small 1/2.33-inch CCD sensor.
  • Lack of manual exposure controls or RAW format support for advanced editing.

Expert reviews

E
ephotozine.com
11/03/2014
Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 Review - ePHOTOzine

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 is a budget-friendly compact camera featuring a 16-megapixel CCD sensor, a versatile 12x optical zoom lens (24-288mm), and built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing. Key strengths include effective optical image stabilisation, a 3-inch LCD screen, and 15 creative filter effects, making it suitable for casual, social-media-focused photography. However, the camera is...Read more

C
cameralabs.com
04/05/2015
Panasonic Lumix SZ8 review - Cameralabs

Panasonic Lumix SZ8 Review Summary The Panasonic Lumix SZ8 is an affordable, entry-level point-and-shoot camera featuring a 16-megapixel CCD sensor, a 12x stabilised optical zoom (24-288mm equivalent), and a 3-inch 460k-dot LCD screen. A major highlight of this model is its built-in Wi-Fi functionality, which supports remote smartphone control, tap-to-focus capabilities, and direct...Read more

T
techradar.com
06/01/2014
Panasonic SZ8 review - TechRadar

The ⁠Panasonic SZ8 is an entry-level, budget-friendly compact camera designed as an upgrade over smartphone photography, especially for beginners. In terms of pros, it stands out with a versatile 12x optical zoom range (equivalent to 24-288mm) and an upgraded 16-megapixel sensor, which deliver bright, punchy images with excellent detail in bright lighting conditions. The camera...Read more

C
chip.de
19/05/2014
Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 (Digital Camera) Review

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 is a pocket-sized, featherlight digital compact camera that prioritises portability over technical innovation, scoring low in overall performance according to CHIP's expert review. Weighing only 135 grams, its main strengths lie in its highly portable design, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, and an optically stabilised 12x zoom lens spanning a versatile...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
camerarace.com
date inconnue
Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 - Review and specifications

The CameraRace review characterizes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 as a highly compact 159-gram camera with an integrated optical stabilizer and built-in Wi-Fi, offering excellent portability for daily use. However, it achieves a low iCamRank score of 27 out of 100, indicating it falls below the average in its category. Performance is heavily limited by a small 1/2.33" sensor,...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

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