Which One Should I Get?: Canon S95 vs Panasonic LX-5K

by Chris Gampat on 09/01/2010

Both the Canon S95and the Panasonic LX-5are available for purchase now at Amazon and readers may perhaps be confused as to which one to get. Though we do not have image quality comparisons to show (and we’ve only handled the S95 and the Leica D-LUX 4 which compares to the LX-3) we can compare and contrast specs.

Editor’s Note: Reviews of both cameras have been fully completed.

LX-5K

- F2.0-3.3 Leica Summicron lens

- 3.8x Optical Zoom

- 10.1 MP CCD sensor 1/1.63-inch

- Venus Engine FHD is new for better performance

- Intelligent Resolution technology is present in this camera. For more on that, go here.

- HD videos in AVCHD Lite 720p 30p

- Thicker grip than before

- ISO 3200 but expandable to 12,800.

- Newly-incorporated turn-and-push jog dial achieves various selection and setting more quickly

- The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX5 will be available in late-August 2010 for a suggested retail of $499.95 and will be available in black and white models.

- The 3.0-inch large 460,000-dot high resolution Intelligent LCD also redesigned by adopting High CRI (Color Rendering Index) backlight LED to greatly increase the color reproduction, making it more visible both in shooting and playing back images in any conditions from at dark night to under bright sunlight.

- Battery life is extended to shoot 400 photos (CIPA) per a single charge.

- A wide-variety of accessories, including a Live View Finder (DMW-LVF1), External Optical View Finder (DMW-VF1), Wide Conversion Lens (DMW-LWA52), Conversion Lens Adaptor (DMW-LA6), MC Protector (DMW-MC52), ND Filter (DMW-LND52), PL Filter: DMW-LPL52, External Flashes, Leather Case (DMW-CLX5) and a Battery Pack (DMW-BCJ13).

S95

- 10 MP CCD sensor (1/1.7-inch) with a 3.8x Optical zoom and an F/2.0-4.9 aperture

- 720p HD video at 24p

- ISO 3200 in manual; 12,800 in auto mode.

- Scene modes: HDR, Smart Shutter, Vivid, Poster Effect, Fish-Eye Effect, Miniature Effect (which also works in movie mode).

- Hybrid IS like that found in the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM

- 3 inch LCD with 461,000 pixels

- Ring around the lens is still there. This was perhaps one of the most popular features of the camera.

- DIGIC IV Processor

Conclusions (from the respective websites)

- If you take a look at the chart above, the LX-5 will have a slightly larger sensor than the S95.

- The Panasonic shoots at 30p vs the Canon’s 24p

- The Pansonic has a much brighter lens through the aperture range

- The S95 has a processor that is in its DSLRs like the 5D Mk II, 60D and T2i

- Same ISO range

- Ergonomically, I’ve always favored the LX-5, which is close to the LX-3. The addition of the more pronounced grip is very welcome.

- Both shoot RAW files.

- The S95 has a better screen.

- S95 is approximately $100 cheaper than the LX-5, but the LX-5 also has the brighter Leica lens and an ever so slightly larger sensor.

- The LX-5 can accept off-camera flashes.

- The S95 has that awesome ring on the lens.

- S95 weight is Approx. 6.00 oz. / 170g (camera body only) and LX-5 weight is Approx. .61lb with Battery and SD Memory Card

- Battery life of the S95 is approximately 200 shots to the Lx-5′s 400 shots.

- The S95′s dimensions are 3.93 x 2.30 x 1.16 in. (99.8 x 58.4 x 29.5mm) while the Lx-5′s are 4.32 x 2.58 x 1.69 in / excl. protrusions: 1.00 in. The Lx-5 is a bit larger.

So which one do we choose: at the moment the Panasonic LX-5 for overall potential. But the S95 for price.

The Panasonic LX-5is $499.00 at Amazon while the Canon S95is $399.99.

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Tagged as: Cameras, canon, image quality, lx-5, panaosnic, point and shoot, s95, the best camera, which one is better

http://www.weisserth.net Tobias Weisserth

Another argument in favor of the S95: it will probably support CHDK soon. I chose the S90 over the LX3 because of this – plus the Canon is smaller than the Panasonic and fits into any jeans pocket.
- Puneet Thakar
  
  I have both cameras and have thoroughly tested them.
  
  I have uploaded some test shots here, which might help you decide.
  
  https://picasaweb.google.com/102101177325037972967/LX5VsS95?authuser=0&feat=directlink
  
  Every shot is hand held. Of course with RAW format on both cameras whole game can change.
  
  S95 definitely captures images quickly where LX5 retails close to actual colors and light. Handling s95 is easier because of size and dial. LX5 has fantastic grip which you can’t miss. also has quick menu as well as video recording button. Both camera give finest quality in their class but I chose to go with LX5.
  
  Choose LX5 for:
  - Doesn’t blow highlights
  - 24mm wide angle
  - Great colors (not over saturated)
  - Sturdy build
  - Grip that you can hold
  - 400 Shots battery life
  - Video zoom
  - 30fps video AVHCD
  - Larger sensor
  
  Choose s95 for:
  - Compact and lightweight
  - Fast lens
  - Sharp images
  - Common mini USB cable port (no need to carry a unique cable for your camera, even PS3 cable will do.)
  - easy menu dial
  - No lens cap
  - Great at high ISO
http://ferrydust.tumblr.com Ali

From what I’ve “overheard” online, the S95 looks good on paper but many people who bought the S95 are returning theirs. e.g. http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1010&message=36125708&changemode=1

Further, the LX5 look good on paper and so far it seems like those who have it in hand are exceedingly pleased with it.
- Peter
  
  Useless Rhetoric, I’ve compared both cameras. Conclusion: Paying $100 more for a Panasonic that tries to claim the Leica name(of which BTW is manufactured by panasonic 100%) is marketing at its best. Canon has the build and and “overall” IQ edge. So why pay $100 more for less is the question hear?? My choice was the S95, hands down. But I did buy a Panasonic microwave oven, and I love it. lol
  - http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat
    
    And you sir, will be proven wrong come Monday.
    
    Put the coffee pot on low heat
http://spystyle.com Jason

I ordered my LX5 yesterday. After reading the reviews and inspecting as many samples as I could, I have concluded that the LX3/LX5 outclass the S90/S95 in almost every way (other than size). This must be why the Canons are so much cheaper.
CURIOUS

The camera has not yet been released in the UK yet ‘many people who bought the S95 are returning theirs’? Seems odd to me.

I suspect both cameras will produce similarly good results. My guess is anyone that has a DSLR will probably opt for the S95 for its more pocketable size while if you do not have the DSLR, you would probably go for the Panasonic as an all round camera.
sexythang

my take on it is that the lx5 is a camera you’d love to use. S95 is a camera you wont mind losing. This will reflect the battle between s90 vs lx3 where there is one clear winner.
foosion

From many user reports, there is no real difference in image quality between the two cameras. The main issues seem to be:
- how important is 24mm
- how important is size

Beyond that, which feels better in your hands
michael

After handling the S95 and LX5 at a photo shop, I decided on the S95 for these reasons. I will never miss 24mm. However, I will miss 105mm should I get the LX5. I wished the S95 has a focal length of 150mm. The S95 felt more comfortable in my small hands. It’s also smaller and lighter and since the day I bought it, the S95 has always been in my pant’s pocket. The S95 has flash compensation. Flash compensation is a must item for me. From reading a few articles and specifications about the S95 on the internet, I knew for sure the S95 has this feature before I walked into the photo shop. I was not sure the LX5 has flash compensation. The specifications I read on the LX5 does not mention flash compensation. The staff at the photo shop did not allow me to read the the LX5 user manual. So, at the point of purchase, I had to assume that the LX5 has no flash compensation. (Till date, I am not sure if the LX5 has flash compenstion. I hope it has.) Lastly, I prefer the colors on the S95. For me, I would have had a much harder time deciding between the two if the LX5 had a focal length of 105mm and flash compensation.
http://avene.org Glenn Thomas

I chose the S95 mostly for its video mode. I’ve shot 4 music videos on an Ixus 110/Ixy 510/SD 960, so I know how well these Canon compact perform. With a bit rate 24mbps vs 17mbps on the LX5 for video makes the S95 a winner. A number of other reasons too. I saw a comparison on another site and the S95 had less noise at high ISO’s too. Plus the size, an LX5 would be too bulky to fit in my pocket comfortably. So bought an S95 today, and have been extremely pleased with the results. The low light capability especially.
- PhiliP
  
  “With a bit rate 24mbps vs 17mbps on the LX5 for video makes the S95 a winner.”
  
  Where did you get the info “24mbps” for the Canon Mr Thomas please ? I cannot get it
Chris C.

Thanks …my first visit to your site ..and a pleasant one at that!
Yes Ive been pondering an S90 for ages but kind of knew Canon had a revamp in the works ..pity they didnt develop it more with some of the Panasonics feature ..I do like the external finder and really 28mm equivalent wide is old hat when theres 24mm just round the corner..personally I think ‘wide’ much more desirable than tele ..
so whats the next S95 Evo?An S99.9 maybe:)Titanium /waterproof/freezeproof …OK so I do live in Maine! Cheers , CC
- http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat
  
  S95 Titanium…wow. Going the way of Leica? I’d want better high iso and video.
Cerebus

The sharpness of the LX3/5 Leica lens cannot be overstated. Nothing else in the class measures up, IMHO. Every time I put my LX3 away for a time, I’m startled at how good it is when I pick it back up.

The Panasonic/Leica cooperation is one of the biggest reasons I’m thinking about selling my other kits and buying into a Panasonic u4/3 setup (the other being sheer portability).
- jake
  
  based on the review, it seems that s95 is sharper.
Navid

I appreciate your nice brief review.
Particularly I liked the comparison of sensor sizes. You are right Lx5 (or Lx3) has 1/1.63 sensor but s95 (or s90) has smaller 1/1.7 sensor. It is my understanding that although sensor size is the most prominent factor of sensors determining raw image quality, it is not the only one. There is another factor called sensor sensitivity or sensor efficiency.
In this article (which is from the most professional camera lab that I know):

http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/en/Our-publications/DxOMark-reviews/DxOMark-review-for-advanced-compacts

It is exclusively discussed the importance of sensor efficeincy rather than sensor size, showing that Lx3 raw image quality is marked 39 while canon s90 gets 46 out of 100.
also canon G9, G10 and s90 with exactly the same size of sensor get 35, 38 and 46 respectively.

In addition in new panasonic Lx5 the company didn’t increase the sensor size but they claim that they have improved the sensor sensitivity by 30%.
- http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat
  
  Thanks, well have full reviews coming.
Marcello

Cons of the S95: U can not get very close in macro!!!(twice as close-LX5), Video sucks (If you move the camera or if the subject moves you are out of focus and only 24fps MOV)(LX5 30fps AVCHD Lite Auto-focus), JPEG compression is too high~U must only use RAW!, Battery life is too short!(lasts twice as long- LX5), Camera turns on easily because of the buttons~ in soft bag case and in a pocket!(lx5 has a switch), long exposure options only 15 secs (60 secs- LX5), You Can’t turn Off the Auto-rotate, No Sort Cut Button for Movies. The only good things are the stereo mic, flat body, menu & HD Miniature.
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http://www.twitter.com/danielfisher Daniel Fisher

I just got an S95 on the weekend, first impressions are awesome!

Form factor was important, we’re doing some traveling soon and it had to fit in my pocket.

High ISO looks promising, f2.0 is very nice and the macro function is pretty amazing.

I haven’t really had a new P&S for a while (think Pentax Optio S4i), but the technology in this thing is blowing me away. “Smile Recognition”…. very handy!

I haven’t had a comprehensive session out on the street yet, but so far this thing is exceeding all of my expectations.
- http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat
  
  You know what’s a great modification? Putting gaffers tape on it for extra grip.
  
  Not saying everyone should do it, but it does work well.
rock simpson

i to picked up the s95. i was looking for something that does both good pictures/video. when i say this video test it put me over the top to get the s95.
http://www.vimeo.com/18616526
Dannie Hedgpeth

I didn’t like either one. I settled on the Canon G11. It has all the bells and whistles of a full DSLR plus it will take HD Movies, plus it will still fit in a pocket.

Why would anyone still look at those children cameras when a Prosumer one like the G11 (or G12) are available. Even the G9 or G10 used are great bargains.
- Chris Gampat
  
  1. Smaller
  2. Faster lenses
  3. Stealthier
  4. The G11 is almost Micro four thirds size and NEX 5 size.
  
  Though I will agree that I like the G11. I rated it highly in my review.
Peter J

I have a Canon DSLR but rarely have it with me when I need it. A camera that fits in my jacket pocket is the one that will actually get used. Image quality is very important to me, but I cannot tell the difference between a few pixels here or there. I therefore went for the S95. It is easy to use, with full manual control for those awkard lighting situations. The F2 lens on the S95 is a real advantage over the average point-and-shoot.
The Lumix is a v.good camera but for me it all came down to size!
point zero

The photos will spek for itself. Ive seen photos of both Lumix Lx5 and cannon G11. My Samsung EX1 beat them both in sharpness, which mattered the most!
- Chris Gampat
  
  And the XZ1 beats the Samsung
http://profile.yahoo.com/64PWC2DQIHGSSAL62JLM3EAPOM K.C.

I have the LX3, and this thing is S.H.A.R.P – PERIOD. However, I don’t like the camera for only one reason… The User Interface is very confusing and all over the place. It just seems over done, it needs to be simpler. The one other thing I DO like about it, is that I can use my Canon Speedlights in it’s hotshoe just fine. (yeah, that’s right).. looks funny cus the 580ex II is bigger than the camera itsefl! lol. Low, Light capability is not ‘that’ great. I wished it were better. I am however going to be gettng the Sony DSC Rx 100.. Can you say f/ 1.8? WHAT? ANDI have the 7D, lets just hope that the rumors about the firmware update arent rumors, i hope they are true and not the specs for the new 7D. (IE: from 15 FPS to 26 FPS?) the ability to rate images IN CAMERA? (rating from 1-5 stars) this is perfect if you want your client to chose their images immediately (say you aren’t shooting tethered)and you dont have time to run back to the office, upload have the client come in, or upload them to you site and then have them choose etc… go look at all that the new firmware update is supposed to do!! (oh, and also you can fix white balance and also change the color profile in the camera!) (better bring xtra batteries)