Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic ZS5

In this write-up, we are comparing the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic ZS5, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is very similar and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was unveiled 20 months after the ZS5 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the SZ-12 grades vs the ZS5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-12 has external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS5 has sizing of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic ZS5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are using during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-12 versus the ZS5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and ZS5 is 89 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizes merely by going over specs. The image here may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and ZS5.

All in all, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-12 to deliver greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The younger SZ-12 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.