Panasonic S5 vs Panasonic SZ5

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Panasonic S5 versus Panasonic SZ5, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are created by Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and SZ5 (14MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and SZ5 (1/2.3") come with different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The S5 was revealed 8 years later than the SZ5 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the S5 scores vs the SZ5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic S5 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

For those who are going to lug around your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic S5 enjoys outer dimensions of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") with a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ5 has specifications of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Check the Panasonic S5 versus Panasonic SZ5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the S5 vs the SZ5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the S5 and SZ5 is 60 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to picture the difference between sensor measurements just by reading specs. The graphic underneath should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the S5 and SZ5.

All in all, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The S5 having a bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic S5 will deliver greater detail because of its extra 10MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs far more aggressively. The more modern S5 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.