Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony HX80

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic ZS5 versus Sony HX80, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the ZS5 (12MP) and HX80 (18MP) but they come with the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS5 was revealed 6 years prior to the HX80 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a thorough comparison, below is a simple overview of how the ZS5 matches up vs the HX80 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Sony HX80 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS5 provides outside measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Sony HX80 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") and a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS5 versus Sony HX80 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at the time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the ZS5 against the HX80.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS5 and HX80 is 92 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to see the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading through specifications. The picture here may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS5 and HX80.

To sum up, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Sony HX80 to give you extra detail because of its extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images a little more aggressively. The more aged ZS5 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.