Panasonic ZS1 vs Sony HX5

On this page, we are contrasting the Panasonic ZS1 versus Sony HX5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS1 (10MP) and the HX5 (10MP) is very similar but the ZS1 (1/2.5") and HX5 (1/2.4") offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The ZS1 was introduced 13 months before the HX5 making them a generation away from each other. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a thorough comparison, here is a quick view of how the ZS1 grades against the HX5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery and Sony HX5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS1 has outer measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony HX5 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS1 versus Sony HX5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the ZS1 and the HX5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS1 and HX5 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizes only by reviewing technical specs. The picture here will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS1 and HX5.

As you can tell, both of those cameras have the same resolution but not the same sensor sizes. The ZS1 comes with the tinier sensor which will make achieving shallow depth of field tougher. The more aged ZS1 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.