Panasonic GH5 II vs Sony a1

Let's look closer at the Panasonic GH5 II and Sony a1, both Pro Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Sony. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the GH5 II (20MP) and a1 (50MP) and the GH5 II (Four Thirds) and a1 (Full frame) provide different sensor dimensions.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The GH5 II was released 7 months later than the a1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a thorough comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the GH5 II matches up against the a1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 II and Sony Alpha a1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic GH5 II Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GH5 II enjoys outer dimensions of 139mm x 98mm x 87mm (5.5" x 3.9" x 3.4") having a weight of 727 grams (1.60 lbs) whilst the Sony a1 has measurements of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GH5 II and Sony a1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the GH5 II versus the a1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the GH5 II and a1 is 59 and 61 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizing merely by reviewing technical specs. The graphic here will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the GH5 II and a1.

As you can tell, each of these cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The GH5 II due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Sony a1 will offer extra detail as a result of its extra 30MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images a bit more aggressively. The more modern GH5 II provides an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.