Size and weight is a big decision factor when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, We are going to illustrate Canon SX30 IS and Panasonic ZS8 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Canon SX30 IS has external dimensions of 123 x 92 x 108 mm (4.84 x 3.62 x 4.25″) and weighs 601 g (1.32 lb / 21.20 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 Canon SX30 IS and Panasonic ZS8. Panasonic ZS8 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 18mm narrower, 34mm shorter and 75mm thinner than Canon SX30 IS.
![Canon SX30 IS vs Panasonic ZS8 Camera Size Comparison - Front View]()
Comparison image of Canon SX30 IS and Panasonic ZS8 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Weight is another important factor especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZS8 is significantly lighter (391g ) than the Canon SX30 IS which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither Canon PowerShot SX30 IS nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 (Lumix DMC-TZ18) provides any type of weather sealing in their body, 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 Bridge Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS8's 3" LCD screen is slightly larger than Canon SX30 IS's 2.7" screen.
On the other hand, Canon SX30 IS sports a
Fully Articulated screen which you can change the angle and position of the screen almost freely, making it possible to shoot from waist or over the head levels, and especially very useful for shooting selfies and video. On the other hand, Panasonic ZS8 has a fixed type screen which provides almost no flexibility in shooting positions compared to SX30 IS.