Panasonic ZS40 vs Sony NEX-5R

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic ZS40 vs Sony NEX-5R, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS40 (18MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is fairly well matched but the ZS40 (1/2.3") and NEX-5R (APS-C) provide totally different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS40 was released 17 months later than the NEX-5R making them a generation apart from one another. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the ZS40 scores versus the NEX-5R in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 and Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS40 Gallery and Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS40 features outer measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5R has sizing 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 ZS40 vs Sony NEX-5R in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising during that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the ZS40 and the NEX-5R.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS40 and NEX-5R is 90 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, its hard to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements merely by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic underneath may offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS40 and NEX-5R.

As you can see, each of the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS40 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic ZS40 will give you more detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos way more aggressively. The fresher ZS40 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.