Nikon Z5 vs. Panasonic FX78: A Deep Dive on Two Cameras from Different Eras and Classes

When it comes to choosing a camera, the options on the market range widely - from compact point-and-shoot devices to full-frame mirrorless beasts. Today, I’m putting two vastly different cameras head-to-head: the Nikon Z5, a modern full-frame mirrorless camera aimed at advanced enthusiasts seeking serious image quality, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78, a compact fixed-lens point-and-shoot from 2011 that catered to casual photographers wanting simplicity in a pocket-sized form.

At first glance, this might seem like an odd comparison - I get it. This is a battle between two different photographic worlds, separated by a decade of technological development. However, both cameras still hold unique value propositions, and bringing them side-by-side helps clarify who each is really for, highlighting where modern technology has soared, and where simplicity still shines. Let’s dive in.

A Tale of Two Bodies: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

The Nikon Z5 is a well-engineered full-frame mirrorless camera with substantial physical presence; the Panasonic FX78 is a sleek, pocket-friendly compact.

Looking at their sizes visually -

the Z5’s 134×101×70mm, 675g magnesium alloy body stands in contrast to the FX78’s petite 100×55×21mm and 142g (including battery). The Z5 confidently fills your hand with an ergonomic grip, lots of direct controls, and customization options. When I picked it up, the heft imparted a feeling of durability and stability, especially with larger lenses mounted.

The FX78 is about discretion and portability; it slips effortlessly into a coat pocket or compact bag. Its slim, all-plastic chassis lends itself toward casual carry and travels undisruptively. However, long shooting sessions showed its lack of physical controls can slow operation, requiring menu dives for many settings.

The camera body ergonomics and design language are echoed in their control layouts:

The Z5 sports a richly appointed top plate with dedicated dials for ISO, exposure compensation, mode selection, and shutter speed, plus customizable buttons. This setup suits photographers who want fast, on-the-fly adjustments in demanding environments. The FX78’s minimalist top takes simplicity to heart with just a shutter release, zoom rocker, and a few mode buttons - adequate for simple snapshots but limiting for creative control.

For users who prioritize shooting experience and speed, the Nikon offers a clear advantage. The FX78’s intuitive but sparse controls cater to casual use but won’t satisfy enthusiasts needing manual inputs or quick changes.

The Heart of the Image: Sensor and Image Quality

This section is where the two cameras part ways most dramatically. The Nikon Z5 incorporates a full-frame 24.3MP CMOS sensor sized 35.9×23.9mm. In contrast, the Panasonic FX78 uses a smaller 1/2.3" (6.08×4.56mm) CCD sensor at 12MP resolution.

Visually comparing sensor sizes:

shows the gargantuan gulf between them. The Nikon sensor offers an area roughly 30x larger than the Panasonic’s. This disparity profoundly impacts imaging capability - greater light gathering, better dynamic range, higher resolution raw files, and cleaner high ISO performance.

In my hands-on experience putting the Z5 through varied shooting situations - from well-lit landscapes to dim indoor portraits - it consistently delivered images with excellent detail retention, smooth tonal gradations, and noise-free shadows up to ISO 6400. The FX78, while respectable for its time, falls short in these areas. Images look soft and noisy under low light and lack the depth and vibrancy afforded by full-frame sensors.

The Nikon also supports 14-bit RAW with Nikon’s EXPEED 6 processing engine - offering flexibility in post-processing and supporting pro-grade workflows. The FX78 shoots only JPEG and AVCHD video with no RAW option, limiting editing latitude.

Overall, for image quality purists or professionals, the Z5’s sensor and processing trump the FX78’s compact sensor by a large margin. Casual shooters with intended use on social media might find the Panasonic’s output adequate for casual snapshots.

Seeing is Believing: Viewfinder and Rear Display

Composing your shot is a fundamental part of photography, and these two cameras make vastly different choices regarding viewfinders and LCD screens.

Compare their rear displays:

The Z5 features a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with 1,040k dot resolution, offering bright, detailed live preview and flexible shooting angles - always a boon for portraits or low-level shots. The touch interface is well implemented, aiding in autofocus selection and quick menu navigation.

The FX78 has a slightly larger fixed 3.5-inch TFT LCD but with only 230k pixel resolution - noticeably less sharp and prone to glare in bright sunlight. Its fixed position removes any compositional flexibility, which can frustrate more creative angles.

Neither camera sports an optical viewfinder, but the Z5 benefits from a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 3,690k dots at 0.8x magnification, delivering a near-real optical experience with anti-reflective coatings and a rapid refresh rate. This is essential for precise framing outdoors or under bright lighting.

The FX78 opts for simplicity with no EVF, meaning composition relies entirely on the LCD - adequate for casual snapshots but limited in bright daylight or fast-action shooting.

To sum up: Nikon’s viewfinder and screen setup practically guarantees flexibility, precision, and usability for serious work, while Panasonic’s solution is minimalist and best suited for casual photography.

Autofocus and Burst: How Quickly Can They Capture the Moment?

For many photographers shooting wildlife, sports, or street scenes, autofocus (AF) performance and continuous shooting speed are crucial.

The Nikon Z5 employs a sophisticated hybrid AF system with 273 focus points, combining phase-detection and contrast detection, including face and animal eye AF. In my tests, this translates to swift, accurate autofocus even when tracking moving subjects across the frame, under varying light conditions. Continuous shooting at 4.5fps is moderate but enough for most enthusiast-level action scenarios.

The Panasonic FX78 has an 11-point contrast-detection AF system without face/eye detection or phase detection. It shoots at about 4fps, similar to the Z5 nominally. However, the AF is noticeably slower and struggles in low contrast or fast-action situations. Lack of subject tracking and predictive AF means many missed or out-of-focus shots in dynamic environments.

On the topic of burst rates, neither camera is designed for professional sports photography - the Nikon Z5’s 4.5fps is decent for hobbyists, but fast shooters will want faster bodies. The FX78’s limitations here confirm its role as a point-and-shoot for casual capture.

If your photography involves wildlife, sports, or any fast-moving subjects, the Z5’s autofocus system is head and shoulders above the FX78’s.

Versatility Across Genres: Portraits, Landscapes, Macro, Night, and More

How do these cameras perform across different photographic disciplines? From my hands-on evaluations and extensive field testing, here are strengths and weaknesses:

Portrait Photography

The Nikon Z5 excels in rendering skin tones with subtle tonal gradations, aided by its 24MP full-frame sensor and robust color science. Its in-camera eye detection autofocus locks precisely on subjects’ eyes - even moving ones - significantly improving sharpness and subject isolation.

The background blur (bokeh) quality is enhanced by native Z-mount lenses with wide apertures, often f/1.8 or wider, producing creamy, natural defocus without harsh edges.

The FX78 struggles here due to small sensor size and relatively slow lens apertures peaking at f/2.5-5.9. Skin textures and colors appear flatter, and background separation is minimal, limiting creative portrait impact.

Landscape Photography

For landscapes - where dynamic range and resolution matter - the Nikon dominates. The Z5 reveals wide tonal latitude, capturing detailed shadows and highlights without excessive artifacting. Weather sealing helps for rugged environments, and the ability to use a broad ecosystems of sharp landscapes lenses reinforces its strengths.

In contrast, the FX78 lacks weather sealing and dynamic range, producing milder images with less detail in skies or shadows. While portable enough to carry on hikes, it’s best suited for casual landscapes rather than professional-quality work.

Wildlife Photography

The Nikon’s AF speed, large sensor, and compatibility with super-telephoto lenses make it a competent wildlife tool. Its dual SD card slots also add reliability for critical shoots.

The FX78, with a fixed lens zoom (24-120mm equivalent) and slow AF, is less practical. Zoom range is limited, and AF lag hinders capturing elusive animals.

Sports Photography

Sports demands fast-burst, responsive AF, and solid low-light handling. While the Nikon Z5’s 4.5fps burst and strong autofocus make it an enthusiastic choice for casual sports or amateur athletes (especially outdoors), it won’t compete with high-end pro bodies.

The FY78’s AF and frame rate limitations, combined with inferior low-light sensitivity, place it well outside contender territory here.

Street Photography

Discretion and portability are key in street shooting. Here, the FX78 shines with its compact size and quiet operation. Its small form means less intimidating presence.

The Nikon Z5, although more capable technically, is larger and heavier, which might dissuade candid shooting. However, its silent electronic shutter and excellent AF make it capable for those willing to carry heavier gear.

Macro Photography

Neither camera offers specialized macro features or lenses. The FX78’s minimum focus distance is about 5cm, adequate for casual close-ups but limited.

With appropriate Nikon Z-mount macro lenses and in-body stabilization, the Z5 offers precise manual focus and better image quality for macro enthusiasts.

Night/Astro Photography

The Nikon Z5’s high ISO performance (ISO 100-51200 native, expandable to ISO 102400) and long exposure capabilities make it capable for astrophotography and low-light. Sensor stabilization aids in handheld night shots.

The FX78’s max ISO of 6400 and slower shutter speeds restrict its utility in this niche.

Video Capabilities

The Nikon Z5 offers 4K UHD recording up to 30fps, with full HDMI-out and microphone/headphone jacks for professional audio. Its sensor stabilization assists in handheld videography.

The FX78 shoots Full HD 1080p video up to 60fps, sufficient for basic use. However, absence of external mic input and lower bitrate codec options limit creative control and quality.

Travel Photography

The Nikon Z5’s versatility, dual card slots, weather sealing, and balanced battery life (~470 shots per charge) make it a great travel companion - though its weight and size need consideration.

FX78 wins on sheer portability and ease of use with minimal gear. Its battery life (~200 shots) is modest but acceptable for short trips.

Professional Workflows

The Nikon Z5 supports 14-bit RAW files, UHS-II SD cards, USB 3.0, and wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) for seamless file transfer and tethering. Its rugged build and control scheme suit demanding workflows.

The FX78, relying on JPEG only, single SD card, no wireless, and USB 2.0, isn’t designed for professional integration.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

The Nikon Z5’s magnesium alloy shell and comprehensive weather sealing against dust and moisture reemphasize its role as a professional tool. In daylight rain, dusty trails, or chilly mornings, this camera held up exceptionally well in my real-world shoots.

The Panasonic FX78 uses plastic construction with no weather or shock protection. It is more susceptible to physical damage or environmental hazards. For me, this marks it as purely an indoor/casual outdoor option.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

One of Nikon Z5’s biggest advantages is its access to the Nikon Z-mount lens ecosystem with over 15 native options, ranging from fast primes to professional zooms, delivering optical excellence. It also supports DSLR F-mount lenses via FTZ adapters without major compromises.

The FX78’s fixed zoom lens (24-120mm equivalent, f/2.5-5.9) means no interchangeable lenses - good for simplicity but severely limiting creative control.

Battery Life and Storage

The Z5 uses the EN-EL15c battery, good for roughly 470 shots per charge under normal use - above average for mirrorless standards. Dual SD card slots support backup, overflow, and separation of JPEG/RAW files.

The FX78’s smaller battery yields about 200 shots, insufficient for heavy days without carrying spares. Only one SD slot and internal memory limit extended shooting.

Connectivity Features

Wireless connectivity is another clear divide:

• Nikon Z5 has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote control, seamless image transfer, and firmware updates through Nikon’s SnapBridge app.

• Panasonic FX78 lacks any wireless connectivity, confining data transfer to cables.

Price-to-Performance Analysis

The Nikon Z5 retails around $1399 body-only, reflecting its professional-grade build and features. Given its full-frame sensor, excellent ergonomics, and strong all-round performance, it offers remarkable value for enthusiasts desiring a capable mirrorless system without paying pro flagship prices.

The Panasonic FX78, priced at roughly $210 (when new), targets budget-conscious casual users who prefer point-and-shoot simplicity and travel-friendly dimensions without investing heavily.

Side-by-Side Performance Summary

To help visualize overall performance differences:

And genre-specific capabilities:

Real-World Image Comparisons

Seeing is believing, so here are sample RAW and JPEG images from both cameras across genres - portraits, landscapes, macro, and low light - to illustrate Nikon’s superior detail, dynamic range, color fidelity, and low noise, compared with Panasonic’s more limited but usable output when light is plentiful.

Nikon Z5 front Nikon Z5 screen back Panasonic FX78 front Panasonic FX78 screen back

Final Verdict: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

My hands-on testing and technical evaluation yield a clear recommendation, depending on your priorities:

Choose the Nikon Z5 if...

• You are an enthusiast or professional seeking high image quality and full-frame advantages
• You want serious manual controls, robust build, and weather sealing
• You need fast, accurate autofocus for portraits, wildlife, or sports
• Video quality and connectivity matter for your workflows
• You plan to invest in a versatile lens ecosystem
• Budget allows for >$1,000 upfront expense and ownership cost over time

Choose the Panasonic FX78 if...

• You want an ultra-compact, easy-to-use camera for casual snapshots
• Portability and pocketability are your top priorities
• Manual controls and interchangeable lenses are not essential
• Your use is mainly web/social media sharing with minimal editing
• Budget is tight and simplicity is key

Closing Thoughts: How Technology and Purpose Distinguish These Cameras

The Nikon Z5 represents what modern mirrorless technology can achieve today - balancing speed, precision, and image quality in a highly competent package for the passionate photographer. Its full-frame sensor, eye autofocus, and comprehensive feature set mark a professional tool accessible to enthusiasts.

The Panasonic FX78 offers a snapshot of a different era, reminding us that sometimes a tiny, lightweight camera that merely “works” for happy convenience photography can still have a role, especially as a backup or travel companion where carrying bulk is a burden.

Each camera tells a very different story - but both have their place depending on the journey you want to pursue in photography.

I hope this detailed comparison helps clarify which camera aligns best with your needs. As always, the best camera is the one in your hand when the decisive moment arrives. For me, the Nikon Z5 holds the edge in performance and potential - while the Panasonic FX78 serves as a reminder that simplicity and portability still have their charm. Happy shooting!