how to compare like-priced cameras
 

Trying to compare other manufacturer's cameras to the Sony Z5U - $4000 to $6000. did some searches here, but didn't find the right area.

abny ideas?

It really depends upon what you want to do with the new camera. Workflows are changing, along with the technology. If you want to go tapeless, that's a data point. If you want to be able to overcrank, that's another. There are literally a zillion points on which you can qualify a camera.

On a more visceral level, if you are near a city with a store that stocks the cameras you're interested in, go to the showroom and play with them. This is worth it even if you have to make a day trip of it. When you come up with one that you think you might want to purchase, rent it for a day and go shoot stuff. You can then make a reasonably informed decision.

Your original question is too broad to answer effectively. You need to form your list of key careabouts and then start weeding out the cameras that don't fit those.

I found the process rather enjoyable.