Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Nikon P7100 and Panasonic LS5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon P7100 has external dimensions of 116 x 77 x 48 mm (4.57 x 3.03 x 1.89″) and weighs 395 g (0.87 lb / 13.93 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic LS5 has external dimensions of 97 x 62 x 27 mm (3.82 x 2.44 x 1.06″) and weighs 126 g (0.28 lb / 4.44 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon P7100 and the Panasonic LS5. Panasonic LS5 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 19mm narrower, 15mm shorter and 21mm thinner than Nikon P7100.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Nikon P7100 and Panasonic LS5.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic LS5 is significantly lighter (269g ) than the Nikon P7100 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon Coolpix P7100 nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Nikon P7100's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Panasonic LS5's 2.7 screen.
In addition to the size advantage, Nikon P7100 LCD screen also has a
Tilting feature where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels. On the other hand, Panasonic LS5 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to P7100.