Nikon D3200 vs Panasonic SZ5

Here, we are contrasting the Nikon D3200 and Panasonic SZ5, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a significant gap among the sensor resolutions of the D3200 (24MP) and SZ5 (14MP) and the D3200 (APS-C) and SZ5 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizing.

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The D3200 was released very close to the SZ5 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras feature different body design with the Nikon D3200 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick summation of how the D3200 grades versus the SZ5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon D3200 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The complete galleries are provided at Nikon D3200 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera regularly, you need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Nikon D3200 enjoys exterior dimensions of 125mm x 96mm x 77mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 3.0") and a weight of 505 grams (1.11 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ5 has proportions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Examine the Nikon D3200 and Panasonic SZ5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that moment. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the D3200 vs the SZ5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the D3200 and SZ5 is 67 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing just by viewing technical specs. The graphic underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the D3200 and SZ5.

As you have seen, both of the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The D3200 because of its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF simpler and the Nikon D3200 will render more detail as a result of its extra 10MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos way more aggressively.