Olympus FE-5010 vs Panasonic SZ5

Below is a detailed assessment of the Olympus FE-5010 and Panasonic SZ5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FE-5010 (12MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras posses the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The FE-5010 was brought out 4 years prior to the SZ5 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a short view of how the FE-5010 scores versus the SZ5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus FE-5010 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The entire galleries are available at Olympus FE-5010 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus FE-5010 comes with exterior dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 130 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ5 has measurements of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Look at the Olympus FE-5010 and Panasonic SZ5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using at that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the FE-5010 against the SZ5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FE-5010 and SZ5 is 96 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements merely by seeing technical specs. The graphic below will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FE-5010 and SZ5.

As you have seen, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should anticipate the Panasonic SZ5 to produce extra detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively. The older FE-5010 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.