Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony HX20V

Its time to look a little more closely at the Panasonic ZS5 and Sony HX20V, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the ZS5 (12MP) and HX20V (18MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS5 was released 3 years before the HX20V which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the ZS5 matches up vs the HX20V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Sony HX20V Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS5 provides external dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Sony HX20V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS5 and Sony HX20V in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the ZS5 versus the HX20V.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS5 and HX20V is 92 and 90 respectively.

Typically, its tough to visualize the gap between sensor dimensions only by going over specs. The image below may offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS5 and HX20V.

All in all, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different megapixels. You should anticipate the Sony HX20V to deliver more detail as a result of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics more aggressively. The more aged ZS5 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.