Nikon Z30 vs Panasonic S5 II X

Let's take a closer look at the Nikon Z30 versus Panasonic S5 II X, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Pro Mirrorless by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the Z30 (21MP) and the S5 II X (24MP) is fairly close but the Z30 (APS-C) and S5 II X (Full frame) offer different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The Z30 was introduced 6 months before the S5 II X and they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before going straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple overview of how the Z30 grades against the S5 II X in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Z30 and Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 Mark II X. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon Z30 Gallery and Panasonic S5 II X Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Nikon Z30 comes with exterior dimensions of 128mm x 74mm x 60mm (5.0" x 2.9" x 2.4") accompanied by a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic S5 II X has proportions of 134mm x 102mm x 90mm (5.3" x 4.0" x 3.5") accompanied by a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Compare the Nikon Z30 versus Panasonic S5 II X in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the Z30 versus the S5 II X.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the Z30 and S5 II X is 79 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to picture the difference in sensor measurements purely by looking through specifications. The visual below should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the Z30 and S5 II X.

To sum up, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The Z30 with its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic S5 II X will result in greater detail using its extra 3MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos way more aggressively.