Nikon S4100 has a
14.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CCD sensor and features Expeed C2 processor. On the other hand, Panasonic ZS40 has a
18.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CMOS sensor and features Venus Engine processor.
Below you can see the S4100 and ZS40 sensor size comparison.
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Nikon S4100 and Panasonic ZS40 Cameras
Nikon S4100 and Panasonic ZS40 have the same sensor sizes so they will provide same level of control over the depth of field when used with same focal length and aperture. On the other hand, since Nikon S4100 has 28% larger pixel area compared to Panasonic ZS40, it has potential to collect more light on pixel level hence have less noise in low light / High ISO images.
Sensor size sets the circle of confusion, so it drives how much depth of field each
of these bodies gives you at a given aperture. You can calculate it exactly for the
Nikon S4100
or the
Panasonic ZS40 ,
including hyperfocal distance.
