Panasonic S5 vs Sony H20

In this write-up, we are comparing the Panasonic S5 and Sony H20, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a substantial difference between the resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and H20 (10MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and H20 (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizing.

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The S5 was launched 11 years after the H20 which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony H20 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a full comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the S5 scores vs the H20 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H20. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic S5 Gallery & Sony H20 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic S5 enjoys exterior dimensions of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") with a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) whilst the Sony H20 has sizing of 107mm x 69mm x 47mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.9") and a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic S5 and Sony H20 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the S5 vs the H20.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S5 and H20 is 60 and 87 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizes only by checking a spec sheet. The image below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the S5 and H20.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The S5 due to its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic S5 will give you more detail utilizing its extra 14MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images far more aggressively. The younger S5 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.