Olympus XZ-10 vs Panasonic S5

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Olympus XZ-10 versus Panasonic S5, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the XZ-10 (12MP) and S5 (24MP) and the XZ-10 (1/2.3") and S5 (Full frame) posses different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-10 was introduced 8 years before the S5 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus XZ-10 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a complete comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the XZ-10 grades versus the S5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus XZ-10 and Panasonic Lumix DC-S5. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-10 Gallery and Panasonic S5 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus XZ-10 provides physical measurements of 102mm x 61mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) while the Panasonic S5 has proportions of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") and a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs).

Compare the Olympus XZ-10 versus Panasonic S5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the XZ-10 against the S5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the XZ-10 and S5 is 91 and 60 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing just by researching specs. The photograph here will provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the XZ-10 and S5.

All in all, both cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The XZ-10 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic S5 will result in greater detail using its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older XZ-10 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.