Panasonic ZS5 vs Pentax W80

Its time to examine more in depth at the Panasonic ZS5 and Pentax W80, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZS5 (12MP) and the W80 (12MP) is pretty close and they possess the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The ZS5 was introduced 12 months later than the W80 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick summary of how the ZS5 matches up vs the W80 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Pentax Optio W80. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera often, you need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS5 has outside dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Pentax W80 has measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS5 and Pentax W80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS5 vs the W80.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS5 and W80 is 92 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to picture the difference in sensor measurements simply by viewing specs. The photograph below might give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS5 and W80.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact resolution so you should expect comparable quality of images but you would want to take the release date of the cameras into account. The newer ZS5 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.