Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Canon A3500 IS and Panasonic ZS8 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Canon A3500 IS has external dimensions of 98 x 56 x 20 mm (3.86 x 2.2 x 0.79″) and weighs 135 g (0.30 lb / 4.76 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic ZS8 has external dimensions of 105 x 58 x 33 mm (4.13 x 2.28 x 1.3″) and weighs 210 g (0.46 lb / 7.41 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Canon A3500 IS and the Panasonic ZS8. Canon A3500 IS is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 7mm narrower, 2mm shorter and 13mm thinner than Panasonic ZS8.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Canon A3500 IS and Panasonic ZS8.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Canon A3500 IS is significantly lighter (75g ) than the Panasonic ZS8 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Canon PowerShot A3500 IS nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 (Lumix DMC-TZ18) provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Canon A3500 IS and Panasonic ZS8's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.