Panasonic FP5 vs Sony NEX-5

Let's take a closer look at the Panasonic FP5 vs Sony NEX-5, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the FP5 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FP5 was launched 8 months later than the NEX-5 and they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short summary of how the FP5 grades vs the NEX-5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FP5 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic FP5 features outside measurements of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FP5 vs Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you select at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the FP5 compared to the NEX-5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FP5 and NEX-5 is 95 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to envision the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at a spec sheet. The visual below might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the FP5 and NEX-5.

As you can see, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizing. The FP5 contains the tinier sensor which will make getting shallower depth of field more difficult. The fresher FP5 is going to have a benefit in sensor tech.