Leica or Panasonic? The main difference between the Leica C-lux vs Panasonic ZS200 comes down to branding and design as both cameras have the same internals. There’s a bit more to it so here’s everything you need to know before you buy, with image samples.
The Panasonic ZS200 is one of the best Leica C-lux alternatives, because it is essentially the same camera. When it comes to the “Lux” line of cameras, these are cameras made by Panasonic with Leica’s standards on them.
Part of the deal is, Leica can put out their own, and Panasonic can also put out their own version.
| Name | Camera 1 | Camera 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Camera name | Leica C-lux | Panasonic ZS200 |
 |  | |
| Sensor size | 1 inch | 1 inch |
| Megapixels | 20.1 | 20.1 |
| Lens type | Fixed | Fixed |
| Lens (35mm equivalent) | 24-360mm | 24-360mm |
| Max aperture | 3.3-6/4 | 3.3-6/4 |
| Max ISO | 25,600 | 25,600 |
| FPS | 10 | 10 |
| Memory Card | SDXC Slot | SDXC Slot |
| Wireless | Wifi & Bluetooth | Wifi & Bluetooth |
| Dimensions | 4.4 x 2.6 x 1.8 inches | 4.4 x 2.6 x 1.8 inches |
| Weight | 0.75 lb / 340 g | 0.75 lb / 340 g |
| Positives | + Compact + Great IQ + Long zoom + Viewfinder | + Compact + Great IQ + Long zoom + Viewfinder + Much cheaper + Comes in black |
| Negatives | – Slow zoom – Inconsistent IQ – Twice as expensive | – Slow zoom – Inconsistent IQ |
| Where to get | Check For Best Price | Check For Best Price |
So the Leica C-lux Panasonic equivalent is the Panasonic ZS200 (Also named TZ200 outside of North America)
Leica C-lux Vs Panasonic ZS200: What are the similarities?
When it comes to Leica C-lux Vs Panasonic ZS200’s similarities, it is essentially the same camera. If you have ever been to a store and seen one product, and another product with the store’s logo on it, it is the same thing. Both cameras are pretty much identical (there’s still some differences, we will get into that), but the “store brand” so to speak is different.
What are the differences between the Leica C-lux Vs Panasonic ZS200?
But even tough both are essentially the same camera, here’s a few things you need to know.
1. Leica doesn’t have black
This is a weird one, normally Leica loves two color schemes, either black or silver in order to mimic their Leica M line of cameras. But when it comes to the Leica C, the only available color is midnight blue or light gold. That’s it. No silver and more importantly no black. If you want a black camera, the Panasonic is the only choice.
WINNER: Panasonic ZS200
2. Their are not fully compatible
If you like to shoot images and transfer to your phone or tablet, the cameras use different apps. The Panasonic uses the Panasonic app while the C-lux uses the Leica Fotos app. This is important because if you are a Leica photographer, it might be better to simply get the Leica version because you’ll have one app to rule them all. Same thing if you already use Panasonic cameras.
WINNER: None
3. One has accessories galore
If you like your accessories, the Leica C-lux is the way to go. Why? Because Leica has a slew of Leica C-lux accessories you can get, and they all match their own colors. One of the nicest cases is a Leica case where you can easily slip the camera in and out. While it is of course compatible with the Panasonic version, the colors simply won’t match.
WINNER: Leica C-lux
4. One has a better grip
While both cameras have an elevated grip on the right hand side, for the C-lux the front area is pretty bare while the Panasonic version has a raised rubber grip, making it the better camera of the two ergonomically. The ZS200 simply feels better to hold.
WINNER: Panasonic ZS200
5. One’s half the price
Leica’s aren’t cheap cameras by any means. And while sometimes you need to pay for the brand name, Leica’s traditionally are worth the money due to durability and longevity. But there’s no running from the fact that you can get the Panasonic version for about half the price of the C-lux, so when it comes to the price of Leica C-lux Vs Panasonic ZS200, the Panasonic version wins hands down.
WINNER: Panasonic ZS200
| Name | Camera 1 | Camera 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Camera name | Leica C-lux | Panasonic ZS200 |
| | |
| Where to get | Check For Best Price | Check For Best Price |
Leica C-lux Vs Panasonic ZS200: Which one should you get?
I hope you have enjoyed this article about Leica C-lux Vs Panasonic ZS200. Which one should you get? It depends. If you are on a tight budget, then the Panasonic. Otherwise, get the one that is compatible with the app you already use.
Lastly if you are still undecided, and don’t really care about price or app, go for the ones with the colors you like most. If it’s black then Panasonic is the only answer, while Leica has a blue and gold color and a slew of accessories to go with it.