Panasonic F5 vs Sony S980

Lets look a bit more closely at the Panasonic F5 versus Sony S980, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the F5 (14MP) and the S980 (12MP) is relatively similar and they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The F5 was revealed 3 years later than the S980 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the F5 grades versus the S980 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-F5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic F5 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic F5 enjoys physical measurements of 97mm x 58mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) whilst the Sony S980 has proportions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic F5 versus Sony S980 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the F5 compared to the S980.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the F5 and S980 is 96 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the gap between sensor measurements purely by reading technical specs. The photograph below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the F5 and S980.

As you can tell, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Panasonic F5 to offer more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more modern F5 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.