Nikon 1 S2 vs Panasonic G5

Here is a detailed overview of the Nikon 1 S2 and Panasonic G5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the 1 S2 (14.2MP) and the G5 (16MP) is relatively close but the 1 S2 (1") and G5 (Four Thirds) offer different sensor size.

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The 1 S2 was brought out 23 months later than the G5 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Nikon 1 S2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a thorough comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the 1 S2 grades vs the G5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 S2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5. The entire galleries are available at Nikon 1 S2 Gallery & Panasonic G5 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera, you need to factor its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 S2 enjoys physical dimensions of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs) while the Panasonic G5 has sizing of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon 1 S2 and Panasonic G5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at that moment. The following is a front view scale comparison of the 1 S2 versus the G5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1 S2 and G5 is 93 and 74 respectively.

Normally, it is very hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizing simply by looking through specs. The graphic here may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 S2 and G5.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The 1 S2 due to its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Panasonic G5 will result in greater detail having its extra 1.8MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots way more aggressively. The newer 1 S2 provides an edge in sensor innovation.