Panasonic SZ1 vs Sony HX5

Here, we are matching up the Panasonic SZ1 versus Sony HX5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a substantial difference among the image resolutions of the SZ1 (16MP) and HX5 (10MP) and the SZ1 (1/2.3") and HX5 (1/2.4") posses different sensor measurements.

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The SZ1 was brought out 20 months later than the HX5 making them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick view of how the SZ1 scores against the HX5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery & Sony HX5 Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ1 has external 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 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).

Look at the Panasonic SZ1 versus Sony HX5 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the SZ1 vs the HX5.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ1 and HX5 is 95 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to imagine the gap in sensor measurements simply by looking through technical specs. The visual underneath should offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ1 and HX5.

As you have seen, both of those cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The SZ1 due to its larger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh simpler and the Panasonic SZ1 will render greater detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop photos way more aggressively. The more recent SZ1 provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.