Nikon S3600 vs Panasonic ZS5

On this page, we will be evaluating the Nikon S3600 and Panasonic ZS5, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the S3600 (20MP) and ZS5 (12MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The S3600 was revealed 3 years later than the ZS5 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a quick overview of how the S3600 scores against the ZS5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S3600 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon S3600 Gallery & Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon S3600 provides outer measurements of 97mm x 58mm x 20mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS5 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon S3600 and Panasonic ZS5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the S3600 compared to the ZS5.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the S3600 and ZS5 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reading specs. The graphic here should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the S3600 and ZS5.

All in all, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can expect the Nikon S3600 to offer you more detail because of its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The younger S3600 should have an advantage in sensor tech.