Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony A900

Below, we are evaluating the Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony A900, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Advanced DSLR by companies Panasonic and Sony. There is a large difference among the sensor resolutions of the ZS5 (12MP) and A900 (25MP) and the ZS5 (1/2.3") and A900 (Full frame) possess totally different sensor dimensions.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The ZS5 was announced 21 months later than the A900 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS5 being a Compact camera and the Sony A900 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going straight into a detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the ZS5 scores against the A900 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A900. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery & Sony A900 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS5 has got physical measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Sony A900 has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 82mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 3.2") along with a weight of 895 grams (1.97 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony A900 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the ZS5 versus the A900.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the ZS5 and A900 is 92 and 54 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizing only by seeing technical specs. The graphic underneath may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS5 and A900.

As you have seen, both cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The ZS5 with its smaller sensor will make getting shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony A900 will produce extra detail with its extra 13MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The younger ZS5 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.