Nikon 1 AW1 vs Panasonic GM5

Lets take a more detailed look at the Nikon 1 AW1 vs Panasonic GM5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the 1 AW1 (14MP) and the GM5 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the 1 AW1 (1") and GM5 (Four Thirds) provide different sensor sizes.

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The 1 AW1 was unveiled 12 months earlier than the GM5 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a brief summary of how the 1 AW1 grades versus the GM5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 AW1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5. The full galleries are provided at Nikon 1 AW1 Gallery & Panasonic GM5 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Nikon 1 AW1 provides exterior measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.5") along with a weight of 356 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Panasonic GM5 has dimensions of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs).

Look at the Nikon 1 AW1 vs Panasonic GM5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have chosen at that time. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the 1 AW1 compared to the GM5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 AW1 and GM5 is 86 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, its tough to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements simply by seeing technical specs. The visual underneath should provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 AW1 and GM5.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The 1 AW1 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic GM5 will show extra detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images way more aggressively. The older 1 AW1 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.