Panasonic S5 vs Sony A77

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Panasonic S5 and Sony A77, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the S5 (24MP) and the A77 (24MP) is fairly similar but the S5 (Full frame) and A77 (APS-C) possess different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The S5 was launched 8 years later than the A77 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A77 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting through a more detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the S5 matches up against the A77 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 and Sony SLT-A77. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic S5 Gallery and Sony A77 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S5 has 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) and the Sony A77 has proportions of 143mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 732 grams (1.61 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S5 and Sony A77 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the S5 vs the A77.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S5 and A77 is 60 and 59 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements only by reading a spec sheet. The photograph below should offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the S5 and A77.

As you can see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels but different sensor measurements. The S5 offers the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallow depth of field less difficult. The fresher S5 should have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.