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 ZS8 and Sony HX200V side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. 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). Sony HX200V has external dimensions of 122 x 87 x 93 mm (4.8 x 3.43 x 3.66″) and weighs 583 g (1.29 lb / 20.56 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS8 and the Sony HX200V. Panasonic ZS8 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 17mm narrower, 29mm shorter and 60mm thinner than Sony HX200V.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS8 and Sony HX200V.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic ZS8 and Sony HX200V.
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 (373g ) than the Sony HX200V which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 (Lumix DMC-TZ18) nor Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V 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 Top Bridge Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS8 and Sony HX200V's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
On the other hand, Sony HX200V features a
Tilting screen where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels whereas the Panasonic ZS8 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to HX200V.