Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic ZS5

Lets look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic ZS5, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FX78 (12MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is pretty close and both cameras boast the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FX78 was unveiled 8 months after the ZS5 and they are of a similar generation. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a thorough comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the FX78 matches up vs the ZS5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FX78 enjoys outer measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") along with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS5 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic ZS5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are using at the time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the FX78 against the ZS5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FX78 and ZS5 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizes purely by researching technical specs. The picture below may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the FX78 and ZS5.

As you can tell, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size and the identical MP and you should expect comparable quality of pictures although you might want to take the release date of the cameras into account. The more modern FX78 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.