Nikon 1 J5 vs Panasonic GF5

Following is a in depth review of the Nikon 1 J5 versus Panasonic GF5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the 1 J5 (21MP) and GF5 (12MP) and the 1 J5 (1") and GF5 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The 1 J5 was launched 3 years after the GF5 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief overview of how the 1 J5 grades versus the GF5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 J5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J5 Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera often, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon 1 J5 provides outer dimensions of 98mm x 60mm x 32mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF5 has proportions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Look at the Nikon 1 J5 versus Panasonic GF5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the 1 J5 versus the GF5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 J5 and GF5 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to envision the difference in sensor sizes only by going through technical specs. The pic here will offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J5 and GF5.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The 1 J5 featuring a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Nikon 1 J5 will produce more detail utilizing its extra 9 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images a bit more aggressively. The more recent 1 J5 will have an edge in sensor technology.