Head-to-head · Best Compact Travel Cameras

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80D vs Sony RX100 VII

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Sony RX100 VII comes out ahead by a clear margin (2.9 vs 3.7). The gap is mostly about fit for purpose — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Compact Travel Cameras

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80D

2.9

$447

The Panasonic Lumix FZ80D offers a compelling 60x optical zoom range in a compact bridge camera body, making it ideal for travelers and wildlife photographers who need extreme reach. Digital Camera World praised its 4K video capabilities and zoom range, though both reviewers noted the camera's lackluster image quality due to its small sensor. Michael Fil called it 'not worth the money for the features, the form, and the fun' but acknowledged it's a practical choice for casual shooters. It's best suited for users prioritizing zoom over image quality, with the 330-shot battery life being a notable limitation.

Strengths

— 60x optical zoom range equivalent to 20-1200mm on full-frame
— 4K video capture at 30p
— 3-inch fixed touchscreen LCD with 1.84 million dots

Watch-outs

— Lackluster image quality due to small 1/2.3" sensor
— Chunky and bulky design
— Limited battery life for extended use

Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Compact Travel Cameras

Sony RX100 VII

3.7

The Sony RX100 VII is praised as the most capable pocket camera ever made, offering industry-leading autofocus and reliable performance. DPReview called it a 'well-built little camera' with 'incredibly versatile zoom range' that fits in your pocket. The camera excels in video quality with 4K recording and stabilization, though some reviewers noted the slow buffer and confusing interface. It's ideal for travel photographers and parents seeking a reliable, pocketable camera that 'just gets the shot' regardless of subject movement or distance. However, low-light performance is limited by its 'slow' lens and default settings don't encourage optimal feature use.

Strengths

— Industry-leading autofocus implementation with real-time tracking and eye detection
— Excellent 4K video with minimal rolling shutter and Active SteadyShot stabilization
— Versatile 24-200mm ZEISS lens with f/2.8-4.5 variable aperture

Watch-outs

— Slow buffer clearing due to UHS-I slot
— Default out-of-box settings don't encourage use of best features

Full review →

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80D	Sony RX100 VII
Sensor	1/2.3" MOS	20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS
Resolution	18.1 MP	20.1 MP
Lens	60x	24-200mm f/2.8-4.5 ZEISS
Video	4K (30p)	4K HDR with stabilisation
Display	3-inch fixed touchscreen LCD, 1840k-dots	180-degree/90-degree tilting touchscreen
Burst Rate	10 fps	Up to 20 fps
Stabilization	Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS)	Optical and Active SteadyShot
Weight	1.41 lb	302g

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