Panasonic S5 vs Sony A100

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Panasonic S5 and Sony A100, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and A100 (10MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and A100 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor size.

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The S5 was revealed 14 years later than the A100 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the S5 grades vs the A100 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A100. The full galleries are available at Panasonic S5 Gallery and Sony A100 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic S5 features exterior 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 Sony A100 has sizing of 133mm x 95mm x 71mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 2.8") having a weight of 638 grams (1.41 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic S5 and Sony A100 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you use at that moment. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the S5 and the A100.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the S5 and A100 is 60 and 64 respectively.

Often, its hard to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specs. The graphic underneath will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the S5 and A100.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The S5 having a larger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic S5 will offer more detail because of its extra 14 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The fresher S5 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.