Panasonic ZS15 vs Pentax X-5

Below is a in depth review of the Panasonic ZS15 versus Pentax X-5, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a crucial gap among the sensor resolutions of the ZS15 (12MP) and X-5 (16MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS15 was introduced very close to the X-5 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a short overview of how the ZS15 grades against the X-5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 and Pentax X-5. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS15 Gallery and Pentax X-5 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS15 offers outer dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs) whilst the Pentax X-5 has dimensions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") having a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZS15 versus Pentax X-5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the ZS15 compared to the X-5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS15 and X-5 is 92 and 65 respectively.

More often than not, its difficult to see the difference in sensor measurements purely by researching a spec sheet. The photograph below will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS15 and X-5.

Clearly, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Pentax X-5 to provide you with more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively.