Nikon 1 J5 vs Panasonic GM5

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Nikon 1 J5 and Panasonic GM5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the 1 J5 (21MP) and GM5 (16MP) and the 1 J5 (1") and GM5 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The 1 J5 was introduced 7 months after the GM5 and they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a in-depth comparison, below is a short view of how the 1 J5 grades vs the GM5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J5 Gallery & Panasonic GM5 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera, you will want to think about its weight and dimensions. The Nikon 1 J5 enjoys outer dimensions of 98mm x 60mm x 32mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Panasonic GM5 has dimensions of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs).

See the Nikon 1 J5 and Panasonic GM5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at the time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the 1 J5 compared to the GM5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J5 and GM5 is 91 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to see the difference between sensor dimensions merely by reading through a spec sheet. The pic underneath will help provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J5 and GM5.

As you can see, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 1 J5 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF trickier and the Nikon 1 J5 will resolve more detail using its extra 5 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more modern 1 J5 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.