Panasonic S5 vs Sony HX20V

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Panasonic S5 vs Sony HX20V, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There exists a considerable gap between the sensor resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and HX20V (18MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and HX20V (1/2.3") come with different sensor measurements.

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The S5 was launched 8 years later than the HX20V and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX20V being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a short introduction of how the S5 grades versus the HX20V in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic S5 Gallery & Sony HX20V Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera, you're going to have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S5 provides physical measurements of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) while the Sony HX20V has dimensions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic S5 vs Sony HX20V in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the S5 against the HX20V.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S5 and HX20V is 60 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, it is tough to picture the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading through technical specs. The photograph here should give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S5 and HX20V.

As you have seen, both of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S5 due to its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF simpler and the Panasonic S5 will give you extra detail utilizing its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The fresher S5 provides an edge in sensor technology.