Nikon S6100 vs Panasonic ZS5

Below, we will be matching up the Nikon S6100 and Panasonic ZS5, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a big gap among the sensor resolutions of the S6100 (16MP) and ZS5 (12MP) but they possess the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The S6100 was unveiled 8 months later than the ZS5 and they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a complete comparison, below is a short highlight of how the S6100 matches up vs the ZS5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S6100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The full galleries are available at Nikon S6100 Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera, you have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S6100 comes with outside measurements of 98mm x 58mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS5 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon S6100 and Panasonic ZS5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using at that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the S6100 against the ZS5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S6100 and ZS5 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to see the difference in sensor measurements purely by viewing technical specs. The visual here might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S6100 and ZS5.

As you can tell, both of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Nikon S6100 to render extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more modern S6100 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.