Panasonic SZ1 vs Panasonic ZS5

In this article, we are evaluating the Panasonic SZ1 vs Panasonic ZS5, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both manufactured by Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the SZ1 (16MP) and ZS5 (12MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ1 was unveiled 20 months after the ZS5 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a concise view of how the SZ1 scores vs the ZS5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry around your camera frequently, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ1 has exterior measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS5 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic SZ1 vs Panasonic ZS5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select at the time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the SZ1 against the ZS5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ1 and ZS5 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to see the contrast in sensor sizes merely by looking through specs. The picture below might give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ1 and ZS5.

All in all, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic SZ1 to result in extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics far more aggressively. The newer SZ1 will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.