Panasonic LF1 vs Sony HX5

On this page, we are comparing the Panasonic LF1 and Sony HX5, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the LF1 (12MP) and the HX5 (10MP) is very well matched but the LF1 (1/1.7") and HX5 (1/2.4") offer different sensor size.

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The LF1 was launched 3 years later than the HX5 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief overview of how the LF1 matches up versus the HX5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic LF1 Gallery & Sony HX5 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera, you should think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic LF1 features external dimensions of 103mm x 62mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs) while the Sony HX5 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic LF1 and Sony HX5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the LF1 and the HX5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the LF1 and HX5 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Quite often, its difficult to picture the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph here might give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the LF1 and HX5.

Clearly, each of these cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The LF1 because of its larger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic LF1 will give you more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger LF1 should have an edge with regard to sensor tech.