Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic GF5

In this article, we will be analyzing the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic GF5, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the GF5 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the 550WP (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor dimensions.

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The 550WP was unveiled 4 years earlier than the GF5 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus 550WP being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the 550WP matches up versus the GF5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 550WP & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The full galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery & Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to travel with your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus 550WP has outer dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Panasonic GF5 has specifications of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") having a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic GF5 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with during that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the 550WP and the GF5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 550WP and GF5 is 94 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions only by seeing specifications. The image below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the 550WP and GF5.

Plainly, both of those cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The 550WP having a smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Panasonic GF5 will produce more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged 550WP will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.