Panasonic LX5 vs Sony W230

Below, we are comparing the Panasonic LX5 vs Sony W230, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the LX5 (10MP) and the W230 (12MP) is fairly close but the LX5 (1/1.63") and W230 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizing.

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The LX5 was launched 2 years after the W230 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a thorough comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the LX5 matches up vs the W230 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W230. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic LX5 Gallery & Sony W230 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic LX5 has external measurements of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Sony W230 has specifications of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic LX5 vs Sony W230 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you use at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the LX5 against the W230.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the LX5 and W230 is 88 and 95 respectively.

In many cases, its difficult to see the gap in sensor sizes purely by looking through a spec sheet. The image below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the LX5 and W230.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The LX5 due to its larger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Sony W230 will result in greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics much more aggressively. The more recent LX5 is going to have an edge in sensor innovation.