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 ZS40 and Sony HX9V side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic ZS40 has external dimensions of 111 x 64 x 34 mm (4.37 x 2.52 x 1.34″) and weighs 240 g (0.53 lb / 8.47 oz) (including batteries). Sony HX9V has external dimensions of 105 x 59 x 34 mm (4.13 x 2.32 x 1.34″) and weighs 245 g (0.54 lb / 8.64 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS40 and the Sony HX9V. Sony HX9V is 6mm narrower and 5mm shorter than Panasonic ZS40 but they have the same thickness of 34mm.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic ZS40 and Sony HX9V.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZS40 is 5g lighter than the Sony HX9V but we don't think this will make a significant difference.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 (Lumix DMC-TZ60) nor Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V 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
Panasonic ZS40 and Sony HX9V'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.