Panasonic S5 vs Pentax RZ18

Lets examine more closely at the Panasonic S5 versus Pentax RZ18, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a considerable gap between the image resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and RZ18 (16MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and RZ18 (1/2.3") feature different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The S5 was introduced 9 years later than the RZ18 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a detailed comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the S5 grades versus the RZ18 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic S5 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S5 features outside measurements of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") along with a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S5 versus Pentax RZ18 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the S5 against the RZ18.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S5 and RZ18 is 60 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor measurements only by reading through specs. The photograph underneath might give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the S5 and RZ18.

All in all, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The S5 having a larger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh easier and the Panasonic S5 will give more detail using its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos far more aggressively. The younger S5 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.