Panasonic ZS15 vs Sony NEX-5R

Here, we will be comparing the Panasonic ZS15 versus Sony NEX-5R, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the ZS15 (12MP) and NEX-5R (16MP) and the ZS15 (1/2.3") and NEX-5R (APS-C) offer totally different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS15 was launched 2 months earlier than the NEX-5R and they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the ZS15 matches up versus the NEX-5R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 and Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS15 Gallery and Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS15 features external dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5R has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS15 versus Sony NEX-5R in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the ZS15 vs the NEX-5R.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS15 and NEX-5R is 92 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing only by researching specs. The visual below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS15 and NEX-5R.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS15 featuring a smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony NEX-5R will provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures way more aggressively.