Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony HX7V

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony HX7V, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There exists a considerable gap between the resolutions of the ZS5 (12MP) and HX7V (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZS5 was unveiled 13 months before the HX7V making them a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick summary of how the ZS5 scores versus the HX7V when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery & Sony HX7V Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera often, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS5 comes with exterior dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Sony HX7V has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony HX7V in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the ZS5 and the HX7V.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS5 and HX7V is 92 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing only by reading specs. The photograph below should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS5 and HX7V.

All in all, each of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You can anticipate the Sony HX7V to deliver greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively. The older ZS5 is going to be behind in sensor tech.