Panasonic SZ5 vs Panasonic XS1

Lets look a bit more closely at the Panasonic SZ5 and Panasonic XS1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras and they are both built by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ5 (14MP) and the XS1 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras offer the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ5 was brought out 5 months before the XS1 which means that they are of a similar age. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the SZ5 grades against the XS1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery & Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ5 has exterior measurements of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) while the Panasonic XS1 has dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") with a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Check the Panasonic SZ5 and Panasonic XS1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the SZ5 vs the XS1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ5 and XS1 is 95 and 97 respectively.

More often than not, it's difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading through a spec sheet. The picture below should give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ5 and XS1.

Clearly, both of these cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Panasonic XS1 to give you extra detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures way more aggressively.