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 Pentax VS20 and Panasonic ZS8 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Pentax VS20 has external dimensions of 111 x 61 x 38 mm (4.37 x 2.4 x 1.5″) and weighs 235 g (0.52 lb / 8.29 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 Pentax VS20 and the Panasonic ZS8. Panasonic ZS8 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 6mm narrower, 3mm shorter and 5mm thinner than Pentax VS20.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Pentax VS20 and Panasonic ZS8.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Pentax VS20 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 25g lighter than the Pentax VS20 but we don't think this will make a significant difference.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Pentax Optio VS20 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 Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Pentax VS20 and Panasonic ZS8'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.