Nikon S30 vs Panasonic LS5

Here, we are evaluating the Nikon S30 vs Panasonic LS5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a huge gap among the image resolutions of the S30 (10MP) and LS5 (14MP) and the S30 (1/3") and LS5 (1/2.3") provide different sensor dimensions.

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The S30 was brought out 7 months later than the LS5 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a thorough comparison, here is a concise summation of how the S30 matches up vs the LS5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S30 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5. The entire galleries are available at Nikon S30 Gallery and Panasonic LS5 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and size. The Nikon S30 comes with external measurements of 102mm x 65mm x 40mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.6") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Panasonic LS5 has specifications of 97mm x 62mm x 27mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

See the Nikon S30 vs Panasonic LS5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is a front view scale comparison of the S30 compared to the LS5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S30 and LS5 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The graphic here should give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the S30 and LS5.

As you have seen, each of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S30 due to its smaller sensor is going to make achieving bokeh more difficult and the Panasonic LS5 will result in extra detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos way more aggressively. The younger S30 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.