Nikon Z30 vs Panasonic S5

Its time to look more in depth at the Nikon Z30 vs Panasonic S5, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the Z30 (21MP) and the S5 (24MP) is relatively close but the Z30 (APS-C) and S5 (Full frame) offer different sensor measurements.

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The Z30 was launched 23 months later than the S5 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the Z30 grades against the S5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Z30 & Panasonic Lumix DC-S5. The complete galleries are available at Nikon Z30 Gallery & Panasonic S5 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Nikon Z30 comes with outer measurements of 128mm x 74mm x 60mm (5.0" x 2.9" x 2.4") and a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic S5 has specifications of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") along with a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon Z30 vs Panasonic S5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the Z30 against the S5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the Z30 and S5 is 79 and 60 respectively.

Typically, it is very difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing purely by researching technical specs. The photograph here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the Z30 and S5.

As you have seen, each of these cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The Z30 because of its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Panasonic S5 will render greater detail utilizing its extra 3MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more modern Z30 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.