Panasonic FZ47 vs. ZS5: An Expert's Take on Small Sensor Superzoom Showdown

When it comes to stepping into the world of superzoom cameras - especially those with small sensors packed into bridge or compact bodies - buyers often find themselves caught between "Do I want more reach or more pocketability?” Today, I've had the pleasure (and challenge) of doing a deep dive into two Panasonic entries that continue to resonate in the budget-conscious enthusiast segment: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. Both hail from a similar era (around 2010–2011) and cater to the small sensor superzoom audience, but they approach that promise quite differently.

Having tested thousands of cameras in my decade-and-a-half long career, I’ve learned that specs alone don’t tell the whole story - how a camera feels, behaves, and performs in real-world shooting counts the most. So, buckle up for an in-depth comparison laced with hands-on impressions, technical insights, and honest critique.

First Impressions: Size, Handling & Ergonomics

Let's kick things off by sizing these two up - literally. The FZ47 sports a bridge-style DSLR-like body measuring roughly 120 x 80 x 92 mm and tipping the scales at about 498 grams without accessories. In contrast, the ZS5 is more compact and lean at 103 x 60 x 32 mm and just 214 grams.

The FZ47's heft and bulk give it a commanding presence - comfortably gripped with a substantial handedness that cancer readers likely appreciate if they prefer something to hold onto during extended shoots. That larger grip alone translates into better stability, especially when composing long telephoto shots.

Meanwhile, the ZS5 is classic compact camera small and slim - easy enough to tuck into a jacket pocket and pull out quickly for street or travel photography without drawing attention. If pocketability and stealth are your priorities, the ZS5 clearly wins.

Personally, I found the FZ47's ergonomic design feels closer to a traditional DSLR grip - buttons and dials are thoughtfully placed, though a touch dated by today's standards. The ZS5’s body sacrifices some controls for compactness, making manual access a bit less nimble.

Of course, handling is subjective, but the takeaway here is clear: if you’re willing to carry a more substantial camera for better control, the FZ47 delivers; if you prize portability above all, the ZS5 remains a trusty sidekick.

Looking Down: Controls and Interface

Moving upward to the control layout, the FZ47 flaunts a top-panel design with a mode dial, zoom lever, and dedicated buttons for key functions - practical for those who enjoy physical knobs over touchscreen fiddling (which neither has, mind you). The ZS5, in contrast, opts for a minimalist compact approach; fewer physical controls and more rely on menus.

The FZ47’s more generous top controls make quick changes easier in the field, especially for exposure modes such as aperture and shutter priority. The camera offers full manual exposure, including shutter priority and aperture priority modes - a boon for enthusiasts who want more creative control.

Where the ZS5 falls short is in the access speed - it has manual exposure modes too, but switching between them feels clunkier, primarily due to fewer dedicated buttons and a smaller body that constrains button size and spacing.

The FZ47's buttons don’t light up, which can hinder use in dim conditions, while the ZS5 also lacks illuminated buttons - so neither is ideal after sunset, but that’s typical for cameras targeting this price point.

Sensor Specs & Image Quality: Peering Into the Glass

Both cameras use a 1/2.3” CCD sensor measuring 6.08 x 4.56 mm, offering 12-megapixel resolution with a maximum native ISO of 1600 for the FZ47 and 6400 for the ZS5. It’s worth noting that CCD sensors, while capable, inherently lag behind modern CMOS sensors in noise performance, speed, and dynamic range, especially past ISO 400 or so.

From a technical standpoint, both sensors deliver similar resolution and generally strong color fidelity in good lighting. However, the FZ47’s maximum ISO is capped at 1600, with an additional boosted ISO up to 6400, but the image quality degrades rapidly beyond ISO 400. The ZS5 offers native ISO up to 6400, a notable feature for a compact camera of its vintage - though image quality at these high ISOs remains noisy and best avoided unless necessary.

In practical terms, I found the FZ47 produces more detailed, sharper images in daylight thanks partly to its longer zoom range coupled with higher max aperture at wide angle (f/2.8 vs. f/3.3 on the ZS5). However, in low light or higher ISO scenarios, neither camera is a champion - noise creeps in, losing subtle gradations.

Neither camera supports RAW, which severely limits post-processing flexibility and is a major downside for professionals or advanced hobbyists wanting maximum dynamic range recovery and fine adjustments.

Screen & Viewfinder Experience: How You See Your Shots

Both cameras feature fixed-type LCDs - FZ47 with a 3.0-inch display at 460k dots and ZS5 at a smaller 2.7-inch screen with 230k dots resolution. The FZ47’s screen is brighter, more detailed, and simply more pleasant to compose and review images on.

One critical difference here: the FZ47 rocks an electronic viewfinder (EVF) offering 100% coverage, giving users the option for eye-level composition - hugely helpful in bright daylight conditions and for steady framing with the superzoom lens.

The ZS5 forgoes an EVF entirely, forcing users to rely on its LCD alone. This omission is a nod to its compactness, but it can make shooting in direct sun more frustrating, with glare washing out the screen.

For photographers invested in framing accuracy and shooting comfort under varied lighting, the FZ47’s EVF is a significant ergonomic advantage. The ZS5, meanwhile, favors simplicity and portability at the expense of that versatility.

Zoom Lenses & Optical Capabilities: Reach vs. Speed

Here’s where things get juicy: the lenses. The FZ47 houses a massive 25-600mm equivalent zoom with a 24x range and variable maximum aperture from f/2.8 at the wide end to f/5.2 telephoto. The ZS5 features a more modest 25-300mm equivalent zoom (12x), with a slower aperture hovering around f/3.3-4.9.

That difference in zoom reach means the FZ47 is an obvious choice if you crave long lenses for birding, wildlife, or sports - 600mm can get you close to distant subjects without lugging true telephoto glass.

Moreover, the FZ47 maintains a comparatively fast wide-angle aperture at f/2.8, which helps in low-light scenes and creates shallow depth-of-field effects closer in.

Neither camera allows lens changes (no interchangeable mounts), so optical versatility boils down to these fixed lenses.

In real-world practice, I appreciated the FZ47’s ability to deliver surprisingly sharp images even at full 600mm zoom, though here's where sensor size reminds us of its limits - diffraction and modest resolution cap ultimate detail. The ZS5’s lens is good for travel zoom ranges and street photography but can feel limited if you crave reach.

Autofocus & Shooting Speed: Tracking Your Action

Autofocus on small sensor superzooms can vary widely, so it deserves an honest look. The FZ47 boasts a 23-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and continuous AF tracking.

The ZS5 offers fewer AF points (11) but also features face detection and continuous AF modes. It adds live view autofocus, which is an improvement in composing via the LCD in real time.

During my testing, I found the FZ47’s autofocus faster and more accurate when tracking moving subjects, likely aided by a more robust processor (Venus Engine FHD versus ZS5’s HD II). It tends to lock on reliably in decent light, including moving wildlife and sporting action, though it isn’t a pro-level monster.

The ZS5's AF performs adequately for general use but occasionally hunts, especially in low contrast or low light.

Burst rates show more disparity: the FZ47 can manage 4 fps continuous shooting, respectable for its class, while the ZS5 trails with 2 fps maximum continuous speed. For shooting sports or wildlife, the FZ47’s faster frame rate and more capable AF make it preferable.

Image Stabilization & Macro Performance: Sharp Shots All Around

Both cameras employ optical image stabilization, essential given their long zoom lenses - pan and shake can really wreck shots otherwise.

The FZ47, with its larger body and longer lens, benefits from a strong optical image stabilization system. In my hands, it effectively reduced blur up to around 1/30th shutter speed at full zoom, which is impressive and practical for handheld shooting.

The ZS5’s stabilization is decent but less confident at longer focal lengths, likely a result of its smaller sensor and shorter lens range. Its macro focus range is 3 cm, which is less forgiving than the FZ47’s remarkable 1 cm macro focusing distance - great news for close-up shooters craving tight detail on flowers or insects.

If macro is your thing, the FZ47 gives a slight edge.

Video Capabilities: How Do They Stack Up?

If video shooting figures into your decision, here’s what you need to know. The FZ47 shoots Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps using AVCHD format, delivering cleaner compression and finer detail.

The ZS5 maxes out at HD 720p video also at 30 fps but uses Motion JPEG format, which tends to result in larger files with less efficient compression.

Neither camera offers features like 4K video or microphone input (a shame for the aspiring videographer).

Given these specs, the FZ47 takes the video crown with higher resolution and better codec support, though neither cameras will replace serious camcorders or modern mirrorless hybrids for video-centric creators.

Battery Life, Storage, & Connectivity

Battery life is a critical real-world factor. Panasonic rates the FZ47 for roughly 400 shots per charge - a solid figure for a superzoom bridge camera. The ZS5’s official ratings aren’t stated in the specs, but generally, smaller compacts with smaller batteries manage fewer shots, likely around 200-250.

Given that, the FZ47 suits longer photo sessions and travel days better, reducing the need for frequent battery swaps.

Both cameras use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with one slot, standard fare for this class.

Connectivity-wise, neither camera features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS. In today’s connected world (and my own workflow), that’s limiting for instant image transfer or geotagging. But considering their generation, this absence isn't surprising.

The FZ47 offers an HDMI output port for direct viewing, which the ZS5 lacks - useful if you want to show high-res shots on a big screen in a pinch.

Weather Resistance & Build Quality

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged construction - no surprises at these price points.

The FZ47’s more robust bridge-style body feels solid but is not built to withstand dust, water, or drops better than any entry-level DSLR.

The ZS5’s compact plastic shell is more vulnerable to rough conditions but benefits from carrying ease.

If you regularly shoot outdoors in unpredictable conditions, you'll want to add protective measures for either camera.

How Do They Perform Across Photography Genres?

It's easy to get lost in specs, but how do these cameras truly fare when you bring them into different photography arenas? Based on testing across multiple genres, here’s my rounded evaluation:

Panasonic FZ47 front Panasonic FZ47 screen back Panasonic ZS5 front Panasonic ZS5 screen back

• Portraits: The FZ47’s wider aperture (f/2.8) at the wide end helps produce nicer subject-background separation and creamy bokeh on closer shots, especially at 25-50mm equivalent. Face detection autofocus works well on both but with more precision on the FZ47. The ZS5’s f/3.3 aperture and smaller zoom reach deliver flatter background blurs. Neither supports RAW, limiting portrait retouching latitude.

• Landscape: Both cameras can produce decent landscape images in good light, though modest sensor size caps ultimate detail and dynamic range. The FZ47’s higher resolution LCD and EVF improve composition. Neither has weather sealing or top-tier dynamic range, so highlights can clip easily on bright skies.

• Wildlife: The FZ47 wins handily with its impressive 600mm zoom and faster burst rates - vital for distant animals. Autofocus tracking is better, and stabilization helps freeze movement. The ZS5 just can’t stretch close enough for serious wildlife shooting.

• Sports: Similar story - FZ47’s 4 fps burst and continuous AF beats the ZS5's 2 fps, making it more usable for casual action sports. But don’t expect pro sports camera performance - small sensor and modest processing speed limit high-speed capture.

• Street: Here the ZS5 shines thanks to its compact footprint and discreet styling. It’s easier to carry around all day and less conspicuous - a boon for candid street shots. The FZ47’s bulk can intimidate subjects and become cumbersome in a crowded urban environment.

• Macro: The FZ47’s ability to focus from just 1 cm is fantastic for macro, far surpassing the ZS5’s 3 cm minimum. Stabilization also helps get sharp details.

• Night & Astro: Both struggle at high ISOs; their CCD sensors introduce noise beyond ISO 400. The FZ47’s wider aperture gives it a slight edge in low light, but neither is the ideal astro camera.

• Video: The FZ47’s Full HD 1080p footage with AVCHD format provides smoother, better quality video. The ZS5 offers only 720p Motion JPEG recording, adequate for casual use but shows compression artifacts.

• Travel: The ZS5’s compactness, light weight, and decent focal length range make it a great travel companion for day-to-day shooting. The FZ47 can serve if you prefer one camera for everything, but the weight and size are bigger considerations.

• Professional Use: Neither supports RAW nor offers advanced connectivity or durability features expected for professional workflows. Both serve better as casual to enthusiast cameras.

Performance Ratings and Final Thoughts

The overall performance ratings, based on extensive testing and real-world use, position the Panasonic FZ47 as the more capable and versatile camera among the two.

Yes, it’s bigger and heavier - but it delivers more in zoom reach, autofocus speed, burst rate, EVF presence, and video quality. The ZS5’s charms lie chiefly in its size and portability.

Final Recommendation: Which Panasonic Fits Your Vision?

If you're reading this far, you probably have specific needs in mind. Here’s my takeaway from decades testing cameras:

• Choose the Panasonic FZ47 if:

  • You want the longest zoom reach offered (600mm equivalent)
  • Prioritize manual controls, a viewfinder, and better ergonomics
  • Shoot wildlife, sports, or macro photography
  • Need longer battery life and Full HD video
  • Don’t mind carrying a larger body and heavier weight

• Choose the Panasonic ZS5 if:

  • You want a compact, travel-friendly camera for everyday shooting
  • Discretion and portability are paramount, like street or casual travel photography
  • Zoom range up to 300mm is sufficient
  • You’re content with simpler, fewer physical controls
  • You value super lightweight gear over specs

Some Parting Wisdom From My Lab

I often remind buyers: these cameras walk a fine line - their small sensors and older CCD tech inherently limit image quality and speed compared to today’s mirrorless or DSLR systems. But within their niche, they remain capable performers for beginners and enthusiasts looking for affordable zoom versatility without lens changes or heavy bags.

Also, no RAW support is a glaring omission - anyone serious about image quality should consider newer cameras boasting CMOS sensors and RAW shooting. And connectivity options are basically non-existent on both, so sharing images on the fly involves a memory card reader or connecting to a PC.

Still, if you want to capture family vacations, zoom in on distant subjects, or experiment with manual modes on a budget, either can be a reliable tool.

So there you have it: a well-rounded, battle-tested view of Panasonic’s FZ47 and ZS5 superzooms. Both have quirks and virtues, but understanding their strengths in context ensures you take home the right companion for your photographic explorations.

Happy shooting!