Nikon P7100 vs Panasonic ZS5

Below is a thorough analysis of the Nikon P7100 vs Panasonic ZS5, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the P7100 (10MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the P7100 (1/1.7") and ZS5 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizing.

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The P7100 was introduced 21 months later than the ZS5 making them a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a detailed comparison, here is a short view of how the P7100 grades versus the ZS5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix P7100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon P7100 Gallery & Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and volume. The Nikon P7100 features physical dimensions of 116mm x 77mm x 48mm (4.6" x 3.0" x 1.9") having a weight of 395 grams (0.87 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS5 has sizing of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon P7100 vs Panasonic ZS5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the P7100 and the ZS5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the P7100 and ZS5 is 82 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to envision the gap in sensor measurements simply by going through specifications. The photograph here should give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the P7100 and ZS5.

Plainly, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The P7100 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic ZS5 will produce more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more recent P7100 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.