Panasonic ZS20 vs Panasonic ZS5

Here, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS20 versus Panasonic ZS5, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras and both of them are manufactured by Panasonic. The resolution of the ZS20 (14MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is pretty similar and both cameras provide the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS20 was released 23 months after the ZS5 which makes them a generation away from one another. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short view of how the ZS20 scores against the ZS5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery and Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS20 provides external measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS5 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS20 versus Panasonic ZS5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that moment. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the ZS20 compared to the ZS5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS20 and ZS5 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by reading a spec sheet. The image here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS20 and ZS5.

As you can see, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic ZS20 to deliver more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs way more aggressively. The newer ZS20 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.