Leica M9 vs Panasonic GM5

Its time to look much closer at the Leica M9 versus Panasonic GM5, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Leica and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the M9 (18MP) and the GM5 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the M9 (Full frame) and GM5 (Four Thirds) have totally different sensor size.

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The M9 was unveiled 6 years earlier than the GM5 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going right into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple overview of how the M9 grades vs the GM5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M9 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5. The full galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery and Panasonic GM5 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera, you'll need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Leica M9 has got exterior dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GM5 has measurements of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs).

Compare the Leica M9 versus Panasonic GM5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the M9 vs the GM5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the M9 and GM5 is 79 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to see the gap in sensor sizes simply by seeing technical specs. The picture below should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the M9 and GM5.

As you have seen, both the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The M9 using its larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF simpler and the Leica M9 will provide more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more aged M9 will be behind in sensor tech.