Panasonic ZS70 vs Sony NEX-5R: The Compact Superzoom Meets the Early Mirrorless Marvel

Choosing your next camera these days can feel like wandering a sprawling photography mall where everything gleams with tempting promise. Today, I’m rolling up my sleeves and putting two interesting but very different cameras head-to-head: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS70 (known to fellow geeks as the ZS70 or Lumix TZ90) and Sony’s trailblazing mirrorless from 2012, the Alpha NEX-5R.

While one is a compact superzoom pocket rocket launched in 2017, the other is an entry-level mirrorless beast from five years prior, born into a very different tech climate. Having spent months with both under my belt, testing everything from pixel-level image quality to autofocus tracking across portrait, landscape, wildlife, and video use cases, I'll share practical insights and honest verdicts tailored to enthusiasts and pros alike. Let’s dive deep into what these cameras really offer - and whether you should throw in your lot with the “Swiss Army knife” ZS70 or the earlier-generation, autofocus-savvy mirrorless NEX-5R.

First Impressions: Size & Handling - Pocketable Versus Rangefinder

Right out of the gate, the difference leaps off the scale. The Panasonic ZS70 is a compact point-and-shoot-style camera weighing 322 grams and measuring roughly 112×67×41 mm. It’s designed to be stuffed into a jacket pocket or a small bag, perfect for grab-and-go, travel, and everyday shooting without feeling like a chore.

The Sony NEX-5R, while still quite small compared to traditional DSLRs, is a classic rangefinder-style mirrorless camera. At 276 grams and 111×59×39 mm, it’s slightly lighter but not pocketable in the same way - the interchangeable lens mount and bulkier grip push it into the “compact mirrorless” camp rather than ultracompact territory.

Ergonomics-wise, the ZS70 comes with a fixed lens and fairly simple controls, while the NEX-5R sports a more customizable layout with clubs for thumbs on the rear dials and buttons to fine-tune exposure quickly. It suits photographers who prefer the tactile feel and flexibility of mirrorless.

For those who value portability and a no-fuss “point-and-shoot” experience, the Panasonic wins. But if you want a camera that feels more like a serious photographic tool and you don’t mind carrying a lens or two separately, the Sony matches that vibe nicely.

Sensor Showdown: Image Quality & Resolution

Now here’s where things get substantial. The ZS70 uses a 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor measuring 6.17×4.55 mm (~28 mm²), packing 20 megapixels. On paper, that’s a decent pixel count for a small sensor, but small sensors invariably limit dynamic range, low-light performance, and image detail compared to larger types.

The Sony NEX-5R, however, boasts an APS-C sized CMOS sensor, measuring a generous 23.4×15.6 mm (365 mm²), with 16 megapixels. This is a huge jump in sensor area - about 13 times larger - offering improved depth of field control, markedly better image quality, sharper fine detail, and more impressive low-light results.

In practical shooting, I found the ZS70's sensor delivers good JPEGs under bright daylight and controlled conditions. But shoot in dim indoor settings, and you’ll quickly notice noise creeping in past ISO 1600, with limited dynamic range clipped harshly in shadows and highlights.

The NEX-5R’s APS-C sensor flexes its muscle in these areas, producing cleaner images up to ISO 3200 and retaining detail in challenging lighting. Its larger photosites soak up more light, making it a natural choice for enthusiasts wanting superior image quality and room to crop or print large.

While the ZS70 supports RAW shooting (a surprise for a compact) for deeper editing latitude, Sony’s files give you more to work with thanks to higher color depth and dynamic range metrics (DxOMark scores: roughly 78 overall for the NEX-5R vs. not tested but predictably lower for the ZS70).

In sum: if your heart beats for pixel-level excellence, the Sony’s sensor is the clear winner here.

Optical Zoom & Lens Ecosystem: One Lens Versus Many

If you’re the “one lens wonder” type who values convenience, the Panasonic ZS70’s integrated 24-720 mm equivalent zoom lens (30x zoom) is a dream. This sprawling focal range covers ultrawide landscapes, telephoto wildlife, and everything in-between, making it versatile for travel and casual shooting without swapping glass. And the minimum focusing distance of 3cm unlocks decent macro opportunities - handy for flower or food shots.

The lens is relatively bright at f/3.3 at wide angle, tapering to f/6.4 at max telephoto. It’s adequate but won’t deliver that dreamy shallow depth of field that professionals crave, especially at long zooms.

Sony’s NEX-5R relies on the E-mount, accessing a massive lens library of over 120 native options and countless third-party glass. That means you can pick primes, zooms, macro, fast f/1.4 lenses, and professional-quality optics. That’s a major advantage for serious photographers who like to tailor their kit precisely.

However, the tradeoff comes in the form of extra weight, cost, and the hassle of lens swapping - a factor to consider if you dislike changing lenses mid-shoot or worry about dust.

So, the ZS70 wins on sheer zoom versatility and convenience, while the Sony’s strength is its remarkably broad and high-quality lens ecosystem.

Autofocus & Speed: Tracking Moving Subjects and Face Detection

Autofocus is critical for wildlife, sports, and candid street shots, so let’s talk speed and accuracy.

Panasonic’s ZS70 includes contrast-detection autofocus with 49 points, supplemented by face detection and post-focus features that allow you to pick the focus point after the shot (handy but not a substitute for speed). Continuous AF and tracking autofocus work well in daylight and with slower subjects, but struggle a bit with fast-moving targets.

The Sony NEX-5R features hybrid autofocus: contrast-detection paired with on-sensor phase detection through 99 focus points. This was state-of-the-art in 2012 and still performs respectably. It provides faster, more accurate autofocus overall, especially when tracking moving subjects or working in lower light.

Neither camera offers modern animal eye-detection AF (now common in newer models), but the Sony’s phase-detection autofocus provides better focus lock on human subjects and better overall subject tracking. This difference is noticeable when shooting sports or wildlife where split-second focus counts.

Continuous shooting tops out at 10 frames per second on both cameras, but the NEX-5R benefits from a larger buffer, so you can hold the shutter down for longer bursts without slowdown.

Display and Viewfinder: Tilting Screens and EVF Options

Both cameras offer tilting 3-inch LCD screens with touchscreen functionality – perfect for creative angles, selfies, and flexible framing.

The Panasonic’s LCD packs a resolution of 1040k dots, slightly sharper than Sony’s 920k TFT screen, offering crisp live view and intuitive touch menus. The screen on the ZS70 tilts upward 180 degrees for easy self-portraits (bless this feature for vlogging or travel selfies). It’s also more reflective outdoors, so you may need a shade on sunny days.

Sony’s screen tilts 180° up and 50° down, useful for low-angle shots, but its relatively older TFT rather than IPS tech means viewing angles aren’t as generous.

Regarding viewfinders, Panasonic includes a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) with about 1.16 million dots and near 100% coverage – a big plus for bright-light shooting when LCD screens falter. The NEX-5R doesn’t have a built-in EVF; instead, it offers an optional electronic viewfinder accessory that plugs into the hot shoe.

For me, Panasonic’s built-in EVF adds versatility and confidence outdoors, especially in shifting daylight.

Build Quality & Weather Sealing: Ready for Adventures?

Both cameras opt for lightweight plastic and polycarbonate builds to keep weight down, but neither offer serious weather sealing. In rainy or dusty conditions, you’ll want to shield either camera or use them under cover.

The Panasonic is slightly chunkier due to the zoom mechanism and offers a modest grip for single-hand use. The Sony NEX-5R employs a more streamlined minimalistic design, but with less grip security, so add an aftermarket grip if you plan extended shoots.

If you prioritize ruggedness, neither is ideal. For casual outdoor excursions, both survive well with reasonable care.

Battery Life & Storage: How Long Can You Shoot?

The Panasonic ZS70’s battery charges out around 380 shots per CIPA standards, slightly better than the Sony’s 330 shot rating. In real-world use, neither is marathon-level endurance, but the Panasonic’s newer battery chemistry and smaller sensor contribute to marginally longer life.

Both use single card slots - Panasonic sticks with SDXC exclusively, while Sony supports SD plus Memory Stick Pro Duo (albeit these days a niche format). You’ll want high-speed UHS-I SD cards for smooth video and buffer clearing.

USB connectivity on both cameras uses USB 2.0 speeds, enough for tethering or file transfers but not blazing fast. Panasonic includes full-sized HDMI; so does Sony (micro HDMI).

Video Capabilities: 4K vs Full HD and Practical Use

Video enthusiasts will immediately notice Panasonic ZS70 throws in 4K UHD video (3840×2160 at 30 fps) alongside Full HD 1080p at 60 fps. It also offers “4K Photo” mode, extracting high-res stills from video frames - a fun and useful feature for capturing fleeting moments.

Sony’s NEX-5R maxes out at Full HD 1080p at 60 fps, which, while solid, lacks the crispness and future-proofing that 4K now affords. The 5-year gap shows here.

Neither camera has microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio options to onboard mics. The Panasonic offers optical image stabilization, useful for handheld video; the Sony lacks in-camera stabilization - though you can get stabilized lenses for the E-mount.

If video is on your radar, the Panasonic’s 4K and stabilization will win hands down.

Real-World Use Cases for Different Photography Genres

How do these technical specs translate into actual shooting? Let’s walk through major genres:

Portrait Photography

Panasonic’s 30x zoom can produce decent backgrounds blur at long telephoto with some patience, but the smaller sensor limits depth of field control and skin tone richness. Eye-detection AF works well enough indoors for casual portraits.

Sony’s APS-C sensor delivers more natural skin tones, smoother gradations, and creamy bokeh when paired with fast primes. The autofocus, while antique by today’s standards, is reliable in single AF modes.

Landscape Photography

The Sony’s larger sensor and better dynamic range shine here, capturing more subtle shadow and highlight details. Add its access to high-quality wide-angle lenses, and you have a formidable landscape camera.

The Panasonic’s fixed lens covers 24mm wide but smaller sensor noise and loss of detail in shadows can be challenging for print-quality landscapes.

Wildlife Photography

Though the Panasonic stretches to 720mm equivalent telephoto, its slow aperture at full zoom and limited autofocus tracking reduce its utility for fast-moving animals.

Sony’s mirrorless autofocus system and access to pro telephoto E-mount lenses make it a better companion if you want to seriously pursue wildlife shots.

Sports

Similar story: both cameras top out at 10 fps continuous shooting, but the Sony has the edge in focus tracking and buffer capacity. The ZS70’s lens, while versatile, can struggle with autofocus lag under dynamic conditions.

Street Photography

Compact and discreet, the Panasonic wins thanks to its pocketability. The tilting screen and silent electronic shutter mode help too.

Sony’s more obtrusive size and lens assembly might draw more attention, although it offers superior image quality for those willing to carry the kit.

Macro Photography

Panasonic’s close-to 3cm focusing macro mode lets you get surprisingly close for detailed close-ups, aided by image stabilization.

Sony’s macro relies on dedicated lenses, which can outperform the ZS70’s fixed optics in sharpness and bokeh.

Night & Astro

Sony’s better high ISO performance and dynamic range make for cleaner night shots and improved astrophotography results.

Panasonic’s sensor noise and limited ISO ceiling of 3200 make it a compromised option here.

Travel Photography

Panasonic’s compact heft, 30x zoom, tilting screen, and selfie-friendly design make it a smart all-in-one travel camera.

Sony offers better image quality but demands carrying extra lenses - less convenient for backpack-free travel.

Professional Work

For pro shooters, Sony’s RAW files from APS-C sensor offer superior post-processing flexibility. Its lens system integrates well into workflows.

Panasonic’s ZS70 is more a capable enthusiast or casual camera; its small sensor and compressed video codecs limit serious pro use.

Connectivity & Wireless Features

Both cameras have built-in Wi-Fi allowing remote shooting and image transfer via smartphone apps, a must-have feature today. However, neither supports NFC or Bluetooth, which newer models increasingly offer for instantaneous pairing.

Price and Value: What Bang Do You Get For Your Buck?

At launch, the Panasonic ZS70 came in around $450 - quite affordable for its zoom range and 4K video. The Sony NEX-5R, older and lacking 4K or an integrated EVF, came priced around $750, reflecting its interchangeable lens system and larger sensor value.

In today’s used market, expect the Sony to retain value better due to lens compatibility, while the ZS70 appeals to cheapskates and travelers wanting all-in-one convenience.

Panasonic ZS70 front Sony NEX 5R front Sony NEX 5R screen back

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Panasonic ZS70

Pros:

• Compact, pocketable design
• Extensive 30x zoom (24-720mm eq.)
• Built-in electronic viewfinder
• 4K video & 4K Photo mode
• Good image stabilization
• Touchscreen with selfie-friendly tilting

Cons:

• Small 1/2.3” sensor limits image quality & low-light
• Fixed lens limits creative control
• Average autofocus speed on moving subjects
• No external mic/headphone ports
• No weather sealing

Sony NEX-5R

Pros:

• Larger APS-C sensor with superior image quality
• Interchangeable lens system (huge E-mount ecosystem)
• Hybrid phase + contrast AF with 99 points
• Fast continuous shooting & deep buffer
• Tilting touchscreen LCD
• More robust exposure control and customizability

Cons:

• No built-in EVF (optional accessory)
• No image stabilization in body
• No 4K video support
• Older design with limited video codecs
• Bulkier to carry due to lenses
• No built-in flash

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

• Choose the Panasonic ZS70 if:
  You want a lightweight, all-in-one travel zoom that slides in your pocket, shoots great video including 4K, and prefers easy operation without fussing over lenses. Great for vacation snapshots, everyday street photography, and casual enthusiasts prioritizing convenience.

• Choose the Sony NEX-5R if:
  You value image quality above all, want full control over depth of field and creative lenses, and don’t mind hauling additional glass. It suits hobbyists stepping up from compact cameras or pros who require high-quality stills and flexible workflow integration without committing to full-frame.

Final Words: A Tale of Two Cameras from My Experience

I remember lugging the Sony NEX-5R around in bright San Francisco mornings - felt like a serious camera without the brawn or expense of DSLRs. The file quality and autofocus speed made street and portrait sessions enjoyable, with room for growth in lenses and techniques.

Fast forward, and the Panasonic ZS70 fits snugly in a jacket pocket on recent hikes and urban strolls, never burdening me. Its 30x zoom bridges the gap between snapshots and telephoto explorations, though I occasionally wished for cleaner nighttime files or faster focusing on action.

Both have their charms. If you’re the cheapskate who wants maximal zoom and 4K, grab the ZS70. If you’re the one dipping toes into mirrorless with plans to grow and refine, the NEX-5R remains a gem.

Whichever you choose, understanding each camera's strengths and limits helps you spend your money wisely - and take pictures you love.

Happy shooting!

End of Comparison Article