Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 Review: Compact, Feature-Packed Camera

Looking for a high-quality camera that's easy to carry and packed with features? Check out the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. This compact camera offers advanced technology, sleek design, and user-friendly controls for capturing amazing photos and videos on the go. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the Lumix DMC-SZ8 and what it can do for your photography.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 article cover photo

Key Features

Jan 06 2014

Announced

16 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPanasonic
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorCCD
Weight159g
MSRP$179USD

Other similar cameras

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 thumbnail

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1

Released Jan 09 2012 | 16MP resolution

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 thumbnail

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3

Released Jan 07 2013 | 16MP resolution

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 thumbnail

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5

Released Jul 18 2012 | 14MP resolution

Overview of the Lumix DMC-SZ8

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 camera is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, compact camera that can deliver stunning photos and videos. With its advanced features, sleek design, and user-friendly controls, this camera makes it easy to capture beautiful memories whenever and wherever you want. From its powerful zoom lens to its built-in Wi-Fi, the Lumix DMC-SZ8 is packed with features that will impress both amateur and professional photographers alike. So, let's dig deeper into what makes this camera so special and why it's worth considering.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

High-resolution sensor
Wi-Fi connectivity
Compact size
Built-in flash
Optical image stabilization
Easy to use interface
HD video recording
Fast autofocus

Cons

Limited zoom range
No manual controls
No viewfinder
Mediocre battery life
Plastic construction
Noisy images in low light
Slow burst mode
Limited ISO range

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8

Weather sealed
Dimensions100 x 60 x 27mm
Weight159g
Thickness27mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
This
Max

Weather Sealing

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderNone
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution460k dots
Body typeCompact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 460k dots. This makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the Lumix DMC-SZ8 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 has a 16MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 16 pixels. Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 has a native ISO range of 100 - 1600 which can be boosted to null - 6400.

Key Features

Jan 06 2014

Announced

100 - 1600

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - 6400
Max resolution4608 x 3456 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Lumix DMC-SZ8 is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Battery Life200 shots
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 uses the undefined model of battery pack. This is rated for 200 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.

Shutter

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 9 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

View on Amazon

FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 features a CCD sensor

Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 weather sealed?

No the Lumix DMC-SZ8 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 announced?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 was announced on Jan 06 2014

Does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the Lumix DMC-SZ8 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8?

The Lumix DMC-SZ8 has a native ISO range of 100-1600, which can be expanded to ISO null-6400 for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

View on Amazon

Similar Camera Reviews

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 article cover photo

Blog Discover The Best Features Of The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 CameraBlog

In this blog post, we will explore all the amazing features of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 camera, one of the most popular point-and-shoot cameras on the market. This camera is equipped with advanced technology that allows users to capture stunning images and videos in amazing quality and clarity. Whether you're a professional photographer or just starting out, this camera has everything you need to take your photography to the next level. Blog

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 article cover photo

Capturing Memories with the Feature-Packed Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 is a compact camera that boasts a range of features including a high-resolution sensor, long zoom lens, and built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. It's the perfect tool for capturing memories on the go, whether you're a novice or a seasoned photographer. Read on to discover why the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 is a popular choice for capturing stunning images.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 article cover photo

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5: The Perfect Compact Camera for Capturing Life's Precious Moments

This blog post will provide an in-depth review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5, a compact camera that's perfect for capturing life's most precious moments. With advanced features and easy-to-use controls, this camera is great for anyone looking to take stunning photos without the bulk of a traditional camera. From its sleek design to its impressive zoom capabilities, we'll cover everything you need to know about this popular camera model.