Nikon P510 vs Panasonic ZS5

On this page, we are contrasting the Nikon P510 vs Panasonic ZS5, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the P510 (16MP) and ZS5 (12MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The P510 was introduced 2 years later than the ZS5 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Nikon P510 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS5 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the P510 matches up vs the ZS5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix P510 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon P510 Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Nikon P510 enjoys outside dimensions of 120mm x 83mm x 102mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 4.0") with a weight of 555 grams (1.22 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS5 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

See the Nikon P510 vs Panasonic ZS5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the P510 against the ZS5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the P510 and ZS5 is 66 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing simply by looking through a spec sheet. The visual underneath may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the P510 and ZS5.

Clearly, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different megapixels. You should anticipate the Nikon P510 to result in more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger P510 should have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.