Leica M9 vs Panasonic GF5

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Leica M9 and Panasonic GF5, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap between the resolutions of the M9 (18MP) and GF5 (12MP) and the M9 (Full frame) and GF5 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

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The M9 was manufactured 3 years before the GF5 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go through a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple view of how the M9 matches up against the GF5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M9 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica M9 Gallery & Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Leica M9 features exterior dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") along with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF5 has specifications of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check out the Leica M9 and Panasonic GF5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are using at that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the M9 versus the GF5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M9 and GF5 is 79 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be tough to see the difference between sensor dimensions merely by reading through a spec sheet. The pic underneath will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the M9 and GF5.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The M9 because of its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Leica M9 will resolve greater detail due to its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged M9 is going to be behind in sensor tech.