Olympus 9000 vs Panasonic LX5

Following is a in depth comparison of the Olympus 9000 vs Panasonic LX5, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the 9000 (12MP) and the LX5 (10MP) is very well matched but the 9000 (1/2.3") and LX5 (1/1.63") offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The 9000 was announced 3 years earlier than the LX5 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick view of how the 9000 grades versus the LX5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus 9000 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5. The whole galleries are available at Olympus 9000 Gallery & Panasonic LX5 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera, you have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus 9000 has outside dimensions of 96mm x 60mm x 31mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LX5 has specifications of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus 9000 vs Panasonic LX5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the 9000 against the LX5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 9000 and LX5 is 92 and 88 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizes only by looking at specifications. The picture here will help give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the 9000 and LX5.

To sum up, both cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 9000 having a tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Olympus 9000 will give you greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics way more aggressively. The more aged 9000 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.