Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic ZS5

The following is a in-depth comparison of the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic ZS5, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is fairly comparable and they use the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was unveiled 17 months before the ZS5 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS5 being a Compact camera.

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the SP-590 UZ scores versus the ZS5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The full galleries are available at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to travel with your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ has external measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") having a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS5 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic ZS5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the SP-590 UZ versus the ZS5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SP-590 UZ and ZS5 is 72 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to envision the gap in sensor dimensions merely by checking out technical specs. The pic underneath will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-590 UZ and ZS5.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same resolution therefore you can expect comparable quality of photos although you would want to factor the launch date of the cameras into account. The more aged SP-590 UZ will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.