Nikon S5100 vs Panasonic SZ1

Here is a extended analysis of the Nikon S5100 versus Panasonic SZ1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap between the image resolutions of the S5100 (12MP) and SZ1 (16MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The S5100 was released 17 months before the SZ1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a complete comparison, below is a short highlight of how the S5100 scores versus the SZ1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S5100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon S5100 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and volume. The Nikon S5100 features outside dimensions of 97mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ1 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon S5100 versus Panasonic SZ1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the S5100 compared to the SZ1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S5100 and SZ1 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing only by going over technical specs. The visual underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the S5100 and SZ1.

As you can tell, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can count on the Panasonic SZ1 to offer you more detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs far more aggressively. The older S5100 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.