Panasonic TS5 vs Sony NEX-5

Below, we will be evaluating the Panasonic TS5 versus Sony NEX-5, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the TS5 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is relatively comparable but the TS5 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) possess different sensor dimensions.

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The TS5 was revealed 3 years later than the NEX-5 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic TS5 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a full comparison, below is a simple summary of how the TS5 matches up against the NEX-5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The full galleries are available at Panasonic TS5 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera frequently, you should take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic TS5 has got outside measurements of 110mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5 has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic TS5 versus Sony NEX-5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the TS5 and the NEX-5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the TS5 and NEX-5 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to picture the difference in sensor measurements only by seeing specs. The graphic below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the TS5 and NEX-5.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The TS5 with its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Panasonic TS5 will show extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs much more aggressively. The younger TS5 should have an edge in sensor innovation.