Panasonic TS5 vs Sony S980

The following is a in depth analysis of the Panasonic TS5 vs Sony S980, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There is a huge difference between the image resolutions of the TS5 (16MP) and S980 (12MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The TS5 was released 4 years after the S980 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a thorough comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the TS5 grades vs the S980 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic TS5 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you'll have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic TS5 comes with physical measurements of 110mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.1") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Sony S980 has specifications of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic TS5 vs Sony S980 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the TS5 compared to the S980.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the TS5 and S980 is 91 and 94 respectively.

Usually, its tough to envision the gap between sensor dimensions simply by going over specifications. The picture here should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the TS5 and S980.

To sum up, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic TS5 to offer you greater detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs more aggressively. The newer TS5 will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.