Panasonic SZ5 vs Panasonic ZS5

Following is a extensive assessment of the Panasonic SZ5 versus Panasonic ZS5, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are created by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ5 (14MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is very close and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ5 was launched 2 years after the ZS5 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the SZ5 matches up against the ZS5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery & Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera often, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ5 features outside dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS5 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic SZ5 versus Panasonic ZS5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the SZ5 compared to the ZS5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the SZ5 and ZS5 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor sizes purely by looking through technical specs. The picture below may give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ5 and ZS5.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You can expect to see the Panasonic SZ5 to render extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The fresher SZ5 should have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.