Nikon S5100 vs Panasonic ZS10

On this page, we are reviewing the Nikon S5100 and Panasonic ZS10, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the S5100 (12MP) and the ZS10 (14MP) is very comparable and both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The S5100 was revealed 5 months earlier than the ZS10 and they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summary of how the S5100 matches up against the ZS10 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix S5100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS10. The full galleries are available at Nikon S5100 Gallery and Panasonic ZS10 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and size. The Nikon S5100 comes with 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 ZS10 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 219 grams (0.48 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon S5100 and Panasonic ZS10 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use during that time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the S5100 against the ZS10.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S5100 and ZS10 is 95 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by going through a spec sheet. The image underneath should give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the S5100 and ZS10.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS10 to produce more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop pics a bit more aggressively.