Panasonic ZS80 vs Samsung NX5

In this article, we are matching up the Panasonic ZS80 versus Samsung NX5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Samsung. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and NX5 (15MP) and the ZS80 (1/2.3") and NX5 (APS-C) feature different sensor size.

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The ZS80 was revealed 7 years after the NX5 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS80 being a Compact camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the ZS80 matches up versus the NX5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 and Samsung NX5. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

If you're going to travel with your camera often, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS80 enjoys outside measurements of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX5 has specifications of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") along with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS80 versus Samsung NX5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS80 versus the NX5.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the ZS80 and NX5 is 86 and 80 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to imagine the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by seeing specifications. The pic here should provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS80 and NX5.

Plainly, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The ZS80 with its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF harder and the Panasonic ZS80 will produce extra detail because of its extra 5 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics far more aggressively. The more modern ZS80 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.