Panasonic ZS30 vs Sony NEX-5R

The following is a in depth comparison of the Panasonic ZS30 versus Sony NEX-5R, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS30 (18MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is very similar but the ZS30 (1/2.3") and NEX-5R (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The ZS30 was brought out 5 months after the NEX-5R which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a full comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the ZS30 scores versus the NEX-5R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 and Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery and Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS30 has got external measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5R has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS30 versus Sony NEX-5R in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use at that moment. Following is the front view size comparison of the ZS30 against the NEX-5R.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS30 and NEX-5R is 92 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, its tough to see the gap between sensor dimensions purely by reviewing specs. The picture underneath should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS30 and NEX-5R.

All in all, the 2 cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The ZS30 due to its tinier sensor will make shooting bokeh more challenging and the Panasonic ZS30 will offer you greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos much more aggressively.