Panasonic LF1 vs Panasonic ZS5

Lets look more closely at the Panasonic LF1 and Panasonic ZS5, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both created by Panasonic. The resolution of the LF1 (12MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is very well matched but the LF1 (1/1.7") and ZS5 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor measurements.

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The LF1 was announced 3 years after the ZS5 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a brief summary of how the LF1 grades against the ZS5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic LF1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LF1 comes with outer dimensions of 103mm x 62mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS5 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Check the Panasonic LF1 and Panasonic ZS5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the LF1 compared to the ZS5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the LF1 and ZS5 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizes simply by checking specifications. The image below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the LF1 and ZS5.

Plainly, each of these cameras have got the exact same megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The LF1 offers the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallow depth of field simpler. The more recent LF1 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.