Panasonic S5 vs Samsung HZ30W

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic S5 and Samsung HZ30W, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Samsung. There is a considerable difference between the sensor resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and HZ30W (12MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and HZ30W (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The S5 was manufactured 10 years after the HZ30W which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Samsung HZ30W being a Compact camera.

Before we go through a in-depth comparison, below is a short highlight of how the S5 grades versus the HZ30W with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 & Samsung HZ30W. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic S5 Gallery & Samsung HZ30W Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S5 comes with exterior dimensions of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") along with a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) whilst the Samsung HZ30W has measurements of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic S5 and Samsung HZ30W in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the S5 versus the HZ30W.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the S5 and HZ30W is 60 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to envision the gap between sensor sizes simply by looking at specifications. The pic here should offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S5 and HZ30W.

Plainly, the two cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The S5 due to its larger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic S5 will give you greater detail due to its extra 12MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively. The more recent S5 will have an advantage in sensor tech.