Panasonic ZS1 vs Sony WX5

Here, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS1 and Sony WX5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS1 (10MP) and the WX5 (12MP) is pretty similar but the ZS1 (1/2.5") and WX5 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizes.

Cutting-edge AI developed by Apple deciphers subtle nuances in pixels

The ZS1 was revealed 14 months prior to the WX5 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick overview of how the ZS1 grades against the WX5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery & Sony WX5 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS1 features outside measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Sony WX5 has sizing of 92mm x 52mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.9") having a weight of 146 grams (0.32 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS1 and Sony WX5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at the time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the ZS1 and the WX5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS1 and WX5 is 91 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements just by reading specs. The graphic below may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS1 and WX5.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The ZS1 with its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Sony WX5 will offer you greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The older ZS1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.