Nikon S5100 vs Panasonic SZ10

The following is a comprehensive overview of the Nikon S5100 versus Panasonic SZ10, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap among the resolutions of the S5100 (12MP) and SZ10 (16MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The S5100 was released 5 years earlier than the SZ10 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a quick overview of how the S5100 scores against the SZ10 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S5100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ10. The complete galleries are available at Nikon S5100 Gallery & Panasonic SZ10 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to travel with your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and size. The Nikon S5100 enjoys outside measurements of 97mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ10 has specifications of 99mm x 60mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 177 grams (0.39 lbs).

See the Nikon S5100 versus Panasonic SZ10 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the S5100 against the SZ10.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S5100 and SZ10 is 95 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to picture the gap in sensor dimensions purely by seeing specs. The picture below may offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the S5100 and SZ10.

All in all, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Panasonic SZ10 to provide greater detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged S5100 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.