Panasonic LX5 vs Panasonic SZ1

Following is a comprehensive assessment of the Panasonic LX5 versus Panasonic SZ1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras and both of them are sold by Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the LX5 (10MP) and SZ1 (16MP) and the LX5 (1/1.63") and SZ1 (1/2.3") use different sensor dimensions.

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The LX5 was brought out within a month of the SZ1 and they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the LX5 grades versus the SZ1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic LX5 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LX5 offers exterior dimensions of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ1 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic LX5 versus Panasonic SZ1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the LX5 compared to the SZ1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the LX5 and SZ1 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizes just by researching a spec sheet. The picture underneath will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the LX5 and SZ1.

Clearly, both the cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The LX5 featuring a larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic SZ1 will provide you with more detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos somewhat more aggressively.