Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony S980

Lets look a little more closely at the Panasonic ZS5 and Sony S980, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the ZS5 (12MP) and the S980 (12MP) is fairly similar and both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The ZS5 was unveiled 17 months after the S980 making them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a detailed comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the ZS5 scores vs the S980 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

When you are planning to travel with your camera often, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS5 offers outside measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Sony S980 has sizing of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZS5 and Sony S980 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you use at that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the ZS5 versus the S980.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS5 and S980 is 92 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to picture the difference between sensor dimensions merely by reviewing specifications. The pic here might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS5 and S980.

Plainly, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same exact MP and you should expect similar quality of files although you would want to consider the release date of the products into consideration. The fresher ZS5 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.