Olympus E-5 vs Panasonic TS5

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-5 versus Panasonic TS5, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Waterproof by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the E-5 (12MP) and TS5 (16MP) and the E-5 (Four Thirds) and TS5 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-5 was unveiled 3 years prior to the TS5 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Panasonic TS5 being a Compact camera.

Before delving in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-5 scores versus the TS5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-5 Gallery and Panasonic TS5 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-5 provides physical measurements of 143mm x 117mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) and the Panasonic TS5 has measurements of 110mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.1") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-5 versus Panasonic TS5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the E-5 against the TS5.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the E-5 and TS5 is 58 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizing merely by reviewing technical specs. The graphic here might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-5 and TS5.

As you have seen, each of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-5 using its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic TS5 will deliver greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older E-5 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.