Nikon AW120 vs Panasonic ZS5

Here, we are analyzing the Nikon AW120 versus Panasonic ZS5, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a significant gap between the sensor resolutions of the AW120 (16MP) and ZS5 (12MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The AW120 was released 3 years after the ZS5 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a simple view of how the AW120 grades versus the ZS5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix AW120 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The complete galleries are available at Nikon AW120 Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon AW120 has got physical dimensions of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") having a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS5 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Examine the Nikon AW120 versus Panasonic ZS5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the AW120 and the ZS5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the AW120 and ZS5 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to see the difference between sensor sizes only by looking at technical specs. The image underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the AW120 and ZS5.

As you can tell, both of these cameras come with the identical sensor size but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Nikon AW120 to give extra detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The younger AW120 is going to have an edge in sensor innovation.