Nikon 1 J5 vs Panasonic GF2

Below is a extensive analysis of the Nikon 1 J5 and Panasonic GF2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by brands Nikon and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the 1 J5 (21MP) and GF2 (12MP) and the 1 J5 (1") and GF2 (Four Thirds) posses different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The 1 J5 was announced 4 years later than the GF2 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summary of how the 1 J5 matches up vs the GF2 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The whole galleries are available at Nikon 1 J5 Gallery and Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera, you'll need to factor its weight and proportions. The Nikon 1 J5 enjoys outside measurements of 98mm x 60mm x 32mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF2 has measurements of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon 1 J5 and Panasonic GF2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is a front view scale comparison of the 1 J5 against the GF2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J5 and GF2 is 91 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements only by checking out specs. The graphic below might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 J5 and GF2.

All in all, both the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The 1 J5 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Nikon 1 J5 will show extra detail with its extra 9 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots way more aggressively. The fresher 1 J5 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.