Panasonic SZ5 vs Pentax S1

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic SZ5 and Pentax S1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the SZ5 (14MP) and the S1 (14MP) is very similar and they possess the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ5 was released 17 months later than the S1 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a brief summation of how the SZ5 matches up against the S1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 & Pentax Optio S1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery & Pentax S1 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ5 features physical dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) while the Pentax S1 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic SZ5 and Pentax S1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ5 and the S1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SZ5 and S1 is 95 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specs. The visual here might give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ5 and S1.

All in all, the two cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the same exact megapixels so you can expect similar quality of photographs though you should really factor the age of the products into consideration. The more modern SZ5 should have an edge in sensor technology.