Battle Of The Superzooms: Nikon P950 Vs Lumix Fz80

At a Glance

The P950 has a faster burst mode than the FZ80, with a maximum shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps) compared to the FZ80’s 5 fps.
Both the P950 and FZ80 have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to transfer images to your smartphone or tablet, control the camera remotely, and share your photos on social media.
However, if you’re looking for a more compact and affordable option with a still-impressive optical zoom range, the Lumix FZ80 is a great choice.

The Nikon P950 and Lumix FZ80 are two popular superzoom cameras that offer impressive optical zoom ranges and a wide array of features for photographers of all levels. In this comprehensive comparison, we will explore the key differences between these two cameras, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your needs.

Image Quality

Sensor

Both the P950 and FZ80 feature 1/2.3-inch sensors, which are common in superzoom cameras. However, the P950 has a slightly higher resolution of 16.1 megapixels compared to the FZ80’s 18.1 megapixels. In practice, this difference in resolution is negligible, and both cameras produce sharp and detailed images.

Lens

The standout feature of both cameras is their impressive optical zoom ranges. The P950 boasts a remarkable 83x optical zoom (24-2000mm equivalent), while the FZ80 offers a slightly shorter 60x optical zoom (20-1200mm equivalent). This means that the P950 can capture distant subjects with greater detail, making it an ideal choice for wildlife and sports photography.

Image Stabilization

Both the P950 and FZ80 feature optical image stabilization (OIS) to reduce camera shake and blur. The P950 has a 5-axis OIS system, while the FZ80 has a 2-axis OIS system. In general, the P950’s 5-axis OIS provides better stabilization, especially when shooting at longer focal lengths.

Performance

Autofocus

The P950 and FZ80 both use contrast-detect autofocus systems, which are typically slower than phase-detect autofocus systems. However, the P950 has a more advanced autofocus system with 171 autofocus points, compared to the FZ80’s 9 autofocus points. This gives the P950 faster and more accurate autofocus, particularly for moving subjects.

Burst Mode

The P950 has a faster burst mode than the FZ80, with a maximum shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps) compared to the FZ80’s 5 fps. This makes the P950 a better choice for capturing fast-moving action.

Video

Both the P950 and FZ80 can shoot 4K video, but the P950 has a slight edge in video quality. The P950 can record 4K video at 25p or 30p, while the FZ80 is limited to 24p. Additionally, the P950 has a dedicated video recording button, making it easier to switch between photo and video modes.

Features

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Both the P950 and FZ80 have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to transfer images to your smartphone or tablet, control the camera remotely, and share your photos on social media.

Electronic Viewfinder

The P950 features an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a resolution of 2.36 million dots, while the FZ80 has a lower-resolution EVF with 1.16 million dots. The P950’s EVF provides a brighter and more detailed view of your shots, making it easier to compose and focus your images, especially in bright sunlight.

Articulating LCD Screen

Both the P950 and FZ80 have articulating LCD screens that can be flipped and rotated, making it easy to shoot from different angles and perspectives. However, the P950’s LCD screen is larger (3.2 inches) than the FZ80’s (3.0 inches).

The Bottom Line: The Best Superzoom Camera for Your Needs

Both the Nikon P950 and Lumix FZ80 are excellent superzoom cameras that offer a wide range of features and capabilities. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize long-range zoom, fast autofocus, and advanced video capabilities, the Nikon P950 is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more compact and affordable option with a still-impressive optical zoom range, the Lumix FZ80 is a great choice.