Nikon P520 vs Panasonic GH2

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Nikon P520 and Panasonic GH2, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the P520 (18MP) and the GH2 (16MP) is relatively similar but the P520 (1/2.3") and GH2 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor size.

Meta to Introduce 'AI-Generated' Labels for Media starting next month

The P520 was revealed 23 months later than the GH2 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Nikon P520 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the P520 scores versus the GH2 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix P520 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The full galleries are available at Nikon P520 Gallery & Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Nikon P520 features outside dimensions of 125mm x 84mm x 102mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.0") accompanied by a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GH2 has proportions of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") along with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon P520 and Panasonic GH2 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using at that time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the P520 compared to the GH2.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the P520 and GH2 is 66 and 70 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualise the gap between sensor measurements just by reviewing technical specs. The visual underneath might offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the P520 and GH2.

As you have seen, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The P520 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Nikon P520 will offer you more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent P520 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.