Leica M8 vs Panasonic GF5

Below, we are analyzing the Leica M8 versus Panasonic GF5, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Leica and Panasonic. The image resolution of the M8 (10MP) and the GF5 (12MP) is very well matched but the M8 (APS-H) and GF5 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor dimensions.

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The M8 was unveiled 5 years earlier than the GF5 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving through a detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the M8 grades vs the GF5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica M8 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The full galleries are viewable at Leica M8 Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Leica M8 comes with physical dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs) while the Panasonic GF5 has proportions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Analyze the Leica M8 versus Panasonic GF5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the M8 vs the GF5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the M8 and GF5 is 79 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to picture the gap between sensor dimensions only by looking at technical specs. The pic below should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the M8 and GF5.

As you can tell, both the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The M8 having a larger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic GF5 will give more detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The more aged M8 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.