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 SX40 HS and Panasonic ZS8 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Canon SX40 HS has external dimensions of 123 x 92 x 108 mm (4.84 x 3.62 x 4.25″) and weighs 600 g (1.32 lb / 21.16 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 SX40 HS and the Panasonic ZS8. Panasonic ZS8 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 18mm narrower, 34mm shorter and 75mm thinner than Canon SX40 HS.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Canon SX40 HS and Panasonic ZS8.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Canon SX40 HS and Panasonic ZS8.
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 (390g ) than the Canon SX40 HS which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS 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 Bridge Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS8's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Canon SX40 HS's 2.7 screen.
On the other hand, Canon SX40 HS 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 SX40 HS.