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 Panasonic FX48 and Nikon S8100 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic FX48 has external dimensions of 95 x 53 x 22 mm (3.74 x 2.09 x 0.87″) and weighs 150 g (0.33 lb / 5.29 oz) (including batteries). Nikon S8100 has external dimensions of 104 x 60 x 30 mm (4.09 x 2.36 x 1.18″) and weighs 180 g (0.40 lb / 6.35 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic FX48 and the Nikon S8100. Panasonic FX48 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 9mm narrower, 7mm shorter and 8mm thinner than Nikon S8100.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic FX48 and Nikon S8100.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic FX48 is significantly lighter (30g ) than the Nikon S8100 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX48 (Lumix DMC-FX40) nor Nikon Coolpix S8100 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
Nikon S8100's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Panasonic FX48's 2.5" screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.