Nikon L20 vs Panasonic LS5

Let's take a more detailed look at the Nikon L20 vs Panasonic LS5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There is a crucial difference among the image resolutions of the L20 (10MP) and LS5 (14MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The L20 was introduced 3 years earlier than the LS5 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a more detailed comparison, here is a short introduction of how the L20 scores against the LS5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix L20 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon L20 Gallery and Panasonic LS5 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and size. The Nikon L20 offers exterior measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 29mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 135 grams (0.30 lbs) while the Panasonic LS5 has specifications of 97mm x 62mm x 27mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Look at the Nikon L20 vs Panasonic LS5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at that moment. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the L20 compared to the LS5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the L20 and LS5 is 94 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to envision the difference in sensor measurements simply by checking out specs. The photograph below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the L20 and LS5.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic LS5 to show more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older L20 will be behind in sensor technology.