Olympus VR-320 vs Panasonic LS5

On this page, we are contrasting the Olympus VR-320 and Panasonic LS5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the VR-320 (14MP) and the LS5 (14MP) is very comparable and both cameras have the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The VR-320 was revealed about the same time to the LS5 and they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summation of how the VR-320 scores vs the LS5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus VR-320 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus VR-320 Gallery and Panasonic LS5 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to travel with your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus VR-320 offers physical measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LS5 has dimensions of 97mm x 62mm x 27mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

See the Olympus VR-320 and Panasonic LS5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the VR-320 compared to the LS5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the VR-320 and LS5 is 94 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to picture the gap in sensor dimensions merely by going through technical specs. The pic underneath will help offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the VR-320 and LS5.

As you have seen, each of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the identical MP and you should expect comparable quality of pictures although you would want to factor the release date of the cameras into account.