Nikon 1 J4 vs Panasonic GF5

Following is a complete overview of the Nikon 1 J4 versus Panasonic GF5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the image resolutions of the 1 J4 (18MP) and GF5 (12MP) and the 1 J4 (1") and GF5 (Four Thirds) offer different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The 1 J4 was introduced 2 years after the GF5 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going into a full comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the 1 J4 grades against the GF5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J4 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The whole galleries are available at Nikon 1 J4 Gallery & Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J4 enjoys external dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF5 has specifications of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Nikon 1 J4 versus Panasonic GF5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the 1 J4 and the GF5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J4 and GF5 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor sizes only by checking out a spec sheet. The pic here will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J4 and GF5.

Clearly, the 2 cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 1 J4 with its smaller sensor is going to make getting bokeh more challenging and the Nikon 1 J4 will show more detail using its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The more recent 1 J4 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.