Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic TS5

Let's take a deeper look at the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic TS5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Waterproof by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the TS5 (16MP) is very close and they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The SP-100 was manufactured 7 months later than the TS5 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic TS5 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a short summary of how the SP-100 scores against the TS5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SP-100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-100 Gallery & Panasonic TS5 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera, you are going to need to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus SP-100 has outer measurements of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") accompanied by a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) and the Panasonic TS5 has specifications of 110mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.1") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic TS5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the SP-100 against the TS5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SP-100 and TS5 is 63 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to visualize the gap in sensor measurements only by researching technical specs. The graphic below might give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-100 and TS5.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact resolution therefore you can expect comparable quality of files however you have to consider the age of the cameras into account. The more recent SP-100 should have an edge in sensor technology.