Nikon P340 vs. Panasonic ZS5: A Comprehensive Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Choosing the right compact camera can be a nuanced task, especially when models, like the Nikon Coolpix P340 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5, cater to distinct photography needs despite sharing the small sensor compact category. Having tested both cameras extensively in various real-world scenarios, we're here to unpack their features, performance, and suitability across photography disciplines to help you make an informed choice.

Physical Feel and Ergonomics: Handling Matters

When a camera feels good in your hands, you're naturally more inclined to explore creative possibilities. Both the Nikon P340 and Panasonic ZS5 are compact and easily pocketable, but subtle differences affect their handling.

• Dimensions & Weight:
  • Nikon P340: 103 x 58 x 32 mm; 194 g
  • Panasonic ZS5: 103 x 60 x 32 mm; 214 g

The Nikon is slightly slimmer and lighter, making it a touch more portable for extended handheld use, particularly useful when traveling light.

• Ergonomics and Controls: The Nikon P340 has a minimalist, clean design with good button spacing and a tactile dial for aperture and shutter priority modes - a boon for manual shooters.

  The Panasonic ZS5, meanwhile, integrates its control layout around the Venus Engine HD II processor architecture, featuring slightly fewer manual focus options and a more simplified button arrangement aimed at casual shooters.

If you value manual control with intuitive dials and buttons, the P340 earns a slight edge here. The Panasonic’s layout feels more geared toward beginners and automatic shooting.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Sensor size and technology profoundly impact image quality, dynamic range, noise performance, and depth of field control.

What This Means for You

• The Nikon P340’s larger and more modern BSI-CMOS sensor lets in more light, which translates to better low-light performance, richer colors, and improved dynamic range.
• The Panasonic ZS5’s smaller CCD sensor, typical for its release era (2010), provides respectable image sharpness but falls short in noise control and high ISO situations.
• The inclusion of RAW support in the Nikon P340 allows advanced photographers to maximize post-processing flexibility, crucial for professional and artistic workflows.

Real-World Image Quality

In side-by-side shots, the Nikon delivers cleaner shadows and superior detail retention, especially noticeable in landscape and low-light scenes. The Panasonic works well under good lighting but struggles with higher ISO noise and reduced dynamic range.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus (AF) is critical across most photography disciplines, from portraiture to wildlife.

Both cameras use contrast-detection AF systems, which can be slower than phase-detection but are common in compact cameras. The Panasonic’s 11 AF points provide more spatial coverage, while the Nikon’s unspecified but multipoint system works well with face detection.

While the Panasonic supports continuous AF and tracking, its slower processor and older AF algorithms limit its responsiveness in fast-paced environments. Conversely, the Nikon prioritizes precision with manual focus options and a reliable AF tracking mode but lacks continuous AF during video or live view.

In practice:

• Sports and Wildlife: Neither camera is ideal for serious sports or fast wildlife photography due to limited burst rates and AF speed.
• Portrait and Street: Both are competent, with face detection aiding composition and focus.
• Macro: The Nikon’s manual focus lets you inch into close focusing distances with confidence.

Lens and Zoom: Flexibility vs. Brightness

The lens is your creative tool - its focal range, aperture, and image stabilization make all the difference.

• The Nikon P340 offers a faster lens at the wide end (f/1.8), ideal for portraits and low-light shooting, enabling shallower depth of field and smoother bokeh.
• The Panasonic ZS5’s lens boasts a significantly longer zoom (300 mm vs. 120 mm), beneficial for wildlife, sports, and distant subjects, but sacrifices aperture speed and low-light capabilities.

If versatility and reach are priorities, the Panasonic may suit you better. If you want better image quality in diverse lighting and creative control over depth of field, the Nikon’s lens holds the advantage.

LCD and Viewfinder: Framing and Reviewing Images

Neither camera includes a viewfinder, leading you to rely on the rear LCD.

The P340’s larger and higher-resolution screen is noticeably sharper and easier to use in bright environments, improving the composing and reviewing experience.

Burst Rate and Shutter: Capturing Critical Moments

• Nikon P340: 10 frames per second burst speed, max shutter speed 1/4000 sec
• Panasonic ZS5: 2 frames per second burst, max shutter speed 1/1300 sec

The P340’s significantly higher burst capacity suits sequential action shots in street, sports, or wildlife photography better.

Video Capabilities: What You Can Capture

The Nikon clearly outperforms the Panasonic in video resolution and frame rate flexibility, making it more enticing for casual vloggers or multimedia creators seeking Full HD capture. The lack of external mic inputs in both is a limitation for professional audio needs.

Battery Life and Storage: Longevity and Practicality

The Nikon offers a standard 220 shots per charge – not abundant but typical for compact cameras. The Panasonic’s battery performance lacks manufacturer data, but tests suggest it runs shorter, especially when using the longer zoom.

Durability and Weather Sealing: Ready for the Outdoors?

Neither camera offers weather sealing, waterproofing, or ruggedized protection. If you often work outdoors in challenging conditions, consider additional protective accessories or alternative models.

Wireless Connectivity and Extras

• The Nikon P340 includes built-in wireless connectivity, allowing quick transfers and remote control from compatible devices. This is helpful for social sharing or tethered shooting.
• The Panasonic ZS5 does not have wireless features, reflecting its earlier release date.

Practical Sample Comparison

Nikon P340 front Nikon P340 screen back Panasonic ZS5 front Panasonic ZS5 screen back

• The Nikon images are crisp, with faithful skin tones and attractive bokeh in portraits.
• Landscape photos show richer dynamic range and detail retention.
• The Panasonic samples reveal its strong zoom versatility but display more noise in shadows and lower overall sharpness.

Scoring Their Performance: Overall and Genre-Specific

Based on our comprehensive testing methodology measuring image quality, autofocus, handling, and more, here are the performance scores:

Genre-specific suitability:

Highlights:

• Portraits: Nikon excels due to aperture and sensor.
• Landscapes: Nikon’s dynamic range and resolution advantage.
• Wildlife/Sports: Panasonic’s longer lens helps but is limited by AF speed.
• Street/Travel: Nikon’s better handling and image quality favored.
• Macro: Nikon’s close focus range and manual focus make it better.
• Night/Astro: Nikon’s BSI-CMOS sensor and higher ISO support prevail.
• Video: Nikon supports higher resolution and frame rates.

Who Should Choose Which?

Summary and Final Thoughts

The Nikon Coolpix P340 steps forward as a very capable compact camera that bridges the gap between casual photography and enthusiast needs. Its advanced sensor technology, fast lens, richer video features, and manual controls place it ahead for those serious about image quality and creative flexibility. The built-in wireless connectivity is a modern convenience that complements its capabilities.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic Lumix ZS5 represents the affordable superzoom compact offering a massive zoom range, making it viable for casual users who want reach more than precision. However, its CCD sensor and dated hardware limit performance in image quality, autofocus speed, and video.

Whether you prioritize image quality and manual controls or extensive zoom and ease of use, the choice depends on your creative goals and budget.

Recommendations: Next Steps on Your Creative Journey

• Try before you buy: Handling and comfort profoundly influence your shooting experience. If possible, visit a retail store or rental service to test both cameras in your own shooting style.
• Consider lenses and accessories: The P340 is fixed-lens but compatible with many accessories like tripods, flashes, and filters enhancing creativity. The ZS5 similarly benefits from thoughtful accessory additions.
• Upgrade path: The Nikon’s RAW support and faster lens provide a better starting base for more advanced post-processing and photographic growth.
• Budget wisely: If ultra-long zoom is a must-have at a modest price, the Panasonic might suffice, but be aware of its limits in low light and video.

Thank you for exploring this detailed comparison. With these insights, you're well-equipped to select a compact camera that suits your style and ambitions. Remember, the best camera is one that inspires you to create consistently, so take your time, get hands-on, and enjoy the process ahead!