Nikon D3 vs Panasonic LS5

On this page, we will be matching up the Nikon D3 and Panasonic LS5, one is a Pro DSLR and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the D3 (12MP) and the LS5 (14MP) is relatively similar but the D3 (Full frame) and LS5 (1/2.3") provide different sensor dimensions.

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The D3 was introduced 4 years before the LS5 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Nikon D3 being a Large SLR camera and the Panasonic LS5 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a short overview of how the D3 grades versus the LS5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon D3 Gallery and Panasonic LS5 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Nikon D3 features exterior dimensions of 160mm x 157mm x 88mm (6.3" x 6.2" x 3.5") accompanied by a weight of 1300 grams (2.87 lbs) while the Panasonic LS5 has proportions of 97mm x 62mm x 27mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon D3 and Panasonic LS5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the D3 versus the LS5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the D3 and LS5 is 50 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by going over a spec sheet. The image below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the D3 and LS5.

Clearly, both the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The D3 with its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF simpler and the Panasonic LS5 will offer more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged D3 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.