Sony W510 has a
12.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CCD sensor and features BIONZ processor. On the other hand, Panasonic LZ30 has a
16.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CCD sensor .
Below you can see the W510 and LZ30 sensor size comparison.
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Sony W510 and Panasonic LZ30 Cameras
Sony W510 and Panasonic LZ30 have the same sensor sizes so they will provide same level of control over the depth of field when used with same focal length and aperture. On the other hand, since Sony W510 has 32% larger pixel area compared to Panasonic LZ30, it has potential to collect more light on pixel level hence have less noise in low light / High ISO images.
Sensor size sets the circle of confusion, so it drives how much depth of field each
of these bodies gives you at a given aperture. You can calculate it exactly for the
Sony W510
or the
Panasonic LZ30 ,
including hyperfocal distance.
