Panasonic ZS80 vs Sony WX5

Following is a extended assessment of the Panasonic ZS80 versus Sony WX5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Panasonic and Sony. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and WX5 (12MP) but they possess the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS80 was brought out 7 years after the WX5 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a in-depth comparison, below is a concise view of how the ZS80 grades vs the WX5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery and Sony WX5 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS80 provides external dimensions of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") and a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) while the Sony WX5 has dimensions of 92mm x 52mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 146 grams (0.32 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS80 versus Sony WX5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the ZS80 against the WX5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS80 and WX5 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to visualise the difference in sensor sizes merely by checking out specs. The pic underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS80 and WX5.

All in all, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Panasonic ZS80 to provide more detail having its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The fresher ZS80 will have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.