Panasonic LX100 vs Panasonic SZ5

On this page, we will be reviewing the Panasonic LX100 and Panasonic SZ5, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are created by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the LX100 (13MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is relatively close but the LX100 (Four Thirds) and SZ5 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The LX100 was introduced 2 years later than the SZ5 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic LX100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the LX100 scores against the SZ5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic LX100 Gallery & Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera often, you're going to have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic LX100 comes with physical measurements of 115mm x 66mm x 55mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 2.2") with a weight of 393 grams (0.87 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ5 has specifications of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic LX100 and Panasonic SZ5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at that moment. Here is a front view size comparison of the LX100 compared to the SZ5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the LX100 and SZ5 is 83 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to visualise the difference in sensor measurements purely by researching specifications. The photograph underneath will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the LX100 and SZ5.

Plainly, both cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The LX100 using its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Panasonic SZ5 will result in extra detail using its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more recent LX100 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.