Panasonic SZ5 vs Sony HX50V

Below, we are evaluating the Panasonic SZ5 and Sony HX50V, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Panasonic and Sony. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the SZ5 (14MP) and HX50V (20MP) but they use the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ5 was announced 9 months prior to the HX50V which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a thorough comparison, below is a brief summary of how the SZ5 grades against the HX50V in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50V. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery and Sony HX50V Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ5 features exterior measurements 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 Sony HX50V has sizing of 108mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") having a weight of 272 grams (0.60 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ5 and Sony HX50V in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the SZ5 against the HX50V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ5 and HX50V is 95 and 89 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizing only by checking specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ5 and HX50V.

All in all, both of those cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but different megapixels. You should expect to see the Sony HX50V to give you extra detail with its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images much more aggressively. The older SZ5 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.