Panasonic S5 vs Panasonic SZ3

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic S5 versus Panasonic SZ3, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are designed by Panasonic. There is a sizable difference between the resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and SZ3 (16MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and SZ3 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor size.

Body cameras now worn by bakery staff to deter stealing

The S5 was announced 7 years later than the SZ3 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before getting into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short overview of how the S5 grades against the SZ3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic S5 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S5 provides outer measurements of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ3 has proportions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic S5 versus Panasonic SZ3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the S5 versus the SZ3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S5 and SZ3 is 60 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading specs. The photograph below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the S5 and SZ3.

All in all, the two cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S5 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic S5 will offer more detail with its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos more aggressively. The fresher S5 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.