Panasonic FZ300 vs Panasonic LS5

Following is a in-depth review of the Panasonic FZ300 versus Panasonic LS5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both offered by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FZ300 (12MP) and the LS5 (14MP) is relatively close and both cameras boast the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The FZ300 was launched 4 years after the LS5 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic LS5 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the FZ300 matches up versus the LS5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ300 Gallery & Panasonic LS5 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ300 features physical measurements of 132mm x 92mm x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6") and a weight of 691 grams (1.52 lbs) while the Panasonic LS5 has dimensions of 97mm x 62mm x 27mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FZ300 versus Panasonic LS5 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the FZ300 and the LS5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FZ300 and LS5 is 59 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizes purely by researching technical specs. The pic here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ300 and LS5.

As you can tell, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic LS5 to result in greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The fresher FZ300 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.