Panasonic ZS5 vs Pentax RS1500

Lets look more in depth at the Panasonic ZS5 versus Pentax RS1500, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS5 (12MP) and the RS1500 (14MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZS5 was unveiled 9 months before the RS1500 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the ZS5 scores against the RS1500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Pentax Optio RS1500. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you will need to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS5 enjoys physical measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Pentax RS1500 has sizing of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS5 versus Pentax RS1500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at the time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the ZS5 vs the RS1500.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS5 and RS1500 is 92 and 93 respectively.

Typically, its tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizing merely by going through technical specs. The graphic here should provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS5 and RS1500.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Pentax RS1500 to provide extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots more aggressively. The older ZS5 will be behind in sensor technology.