Panasonic S5 vs Sony HX80

Below is a in-depth assessment of the Panasonic S5 versus Sony HX80, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There exists a sizable gap between the image resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and HX80 (18MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and HX80 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor size.

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The S5 was announced 4 years later than the HX80 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX80 being a Compact camera.

Before getting right into a in depth comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the S5 scores against the HX80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic S5 Gallery & Sony HX80 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S5 has got exterior measurements of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") and a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) whilst the Sony HX80 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic S5 versus Sony HX80 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you select at the time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the S5 versus the HX80.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S5 and HX80 is 60 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to envision the difference between sensor measurements purely by looking at specs. The graphic underneath will help provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S5 and HX80.

All in all, both the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The S5 having a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field simpler and the Panasonic S5 will give you more detail with its extra 6MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The newer S5 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.