Nikon P7700 vs Panasonic LX5

Below, we are reviewing the Nikon P7700 and Panasonic LX5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the P7700 (12MP) and the LX5 (10MP) is fairly close but the P7700 (1/1.7") and LX5 (1/1.63") enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

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The P7700 was revealed 18 months later than the LX5 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a brief overview of how the P7700 grades against the LX5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix P7700 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5. The full galleries are available at Nikon P7700 Gallery and Panasonic LX5 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Nikon P7700 offers physical measurements of 119mm x 73mm x 50mm (4.7" x 2.9" x 2.0") and a weight of 392 grams (0.86 lbs) while the Panasonic LX5 has specifications of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Look at the Nikon P7700 and Panasonic LX5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the P7700 compared to the LX5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the P7700 and LX5 is 82 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to see the difference in sensor measurements only by looking through a spec sheet. The visual underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the P7700 and LX5.

Clearly, both the cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The P7700 using its larger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Nikon P7700 will render more detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The newer P7700 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.