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 Sony S950 and Panasonic ZS50 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Sony S950 has external dimensions of 93 x 56 x 24 mm (3.66 x 2.2 x 0.94″) and weighs 167 g (0.37 lb / 5.89 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic ZS50 has external dimensions of 111 x 65 x 34 mm (4.37 x 2.56 x 1.34″) and weighs 243 g (0.54 lb / 8.57 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Sony S950 and the Panasonic ZS50. Sony S950 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 18mm narrower, 9mm shorter and 10mm thinner than Panasonic ZS50.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Sony S950 and Panasonic ZS50.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Sony S950 and Panasonic ZS50.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Sony S950 is significantly lighter (76g ) than the Panasonic ZS50 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S950 nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 (Lumix DMC-TZ70) 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 ZS50's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Sony S950's 2.7 screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.