Nikon S5100 vs Panasonic SZ7

Below is a detailed assessment of the Nikon S5100 and Panasonic SZ7, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the S5100 (12MP) and the SZ7 (14MP) is very similar and both cameras posses the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photobucket discusses licensing 13 billion images with AI firms

The S5100 was brought out 17 months earlier than the SZ7 making them a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a complete comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the S5100 matches up vs the SZ7 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix S5100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The entire galleries are available at Nikon S5100 Gallery and Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera often, you should consider its weight and size. The Nikon S5100 enjoys external measurements of 97mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ7 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Compare the Nikon S5100 and Panasonic SZ7 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the S5100 against the SZ7.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S5100 and SZ7 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Normally, its hard to imagine the gap between sensor measurements merely by reading technical specs. The photograph below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the S5100 and SZ7.

As you can tell, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic SZ7 to deliver extra detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos more aggressively. The older S5100 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.