Canon SD1200 IS vs Panasonic GF5

Following is a in-depth analysis of the Canon SD1200 IS and Panasonic GF5, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Canon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SD1200 IS (10MP) and the GF5 (12MP) is very close but the SD1200 IS (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The SD1200 IS was announced 4 years before the GF5 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Canon SD1200 IS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a brief summary of how the SD1200 IS grades vs the GF5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The whole galleries are available at Canon SD1200 IS Gallery & Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Canon SD1200 IS comes with external dimensions of 86mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.4" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Panasonic GF5 has dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") having a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Examine the Canon SD1200 IS and Panasonic GF5 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the SD1200 IS versus the GF5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SD1200 IS and GF5 is 95 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to visualise the difference in sensor sizes only by looking through a spec sheet. The pic below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SD1200 IS and GF5.

As you can see, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SD1200 IS with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic GF5 will result in extra detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The more aged SD1200 IS will be behind in sensor tech.