Panasonic FH5 vs Panasonic LZ20

Following is a in-depth review of the Panasonic FH5 and Panasonic LZ20, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both built by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FH5 (16MP) and the LZ20 (16MP) is fairly comparable and they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FH5 was announced 18 months before the LZ20 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH5 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief summary of how the FH5 scores against the LZ20 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FH5 Gallery & Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera regularly, you have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH5 features exterior measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") and a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) and the Panasonic LZ20 has dimensions of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") along with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FH5 and Panasonic LZ20 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is the front view scale comparison of the FH5 vs the LZ20.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the FH5 and LZ20 is 96 and 71 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to envision the contrast in sensor sizes purely by going through a spec sheet. The image here will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the FH5 and LZ20.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact MP so you can expect comparable quality of photos but you need to consider the age of the cameras into account. The more aged FH5 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.