Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic GM5

Its time to examine more closely at the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic GM5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the GM5 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the SH-1 (1/2.3") and GM5 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SH-1 was launched 5 months earlier than the GM5 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the SH-1 grades against the GM5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Panasonic GM5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you will have to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus SH-1 has got physical dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic GM5 has sizing of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic GM5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at the time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the SH-1 vs the GM5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and GM5 is 88 and 91 respectively.

Often, its difficult to see the gap between sensor sizing just by checking specifications. The graphic below will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-1 and GM5.

Plainly, both the cameras have got the exact same MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The SH-1 comes with the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF trickier.