Panasonic F5 vs Panasonic GM1

Here is a complete assessment of the Panasonic F5 versus Panasonic GM1, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both created by Panasonic. The image resolution of the F5 (14MP) and the GM1 (16MP) is fairly similar but the F5 (1/2.3") and GM1 (Four Thirds) have different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The F5 was introduced 11 months prior to the GM1 and they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic F5 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summary of how the F5 scores against the GM1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-F5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic F5 Gallery & Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic F5 offers outside measurements of 97mm x 58mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) and the Panasonic GM1 has sizing of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") having a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic F5 versus Panasonic GM1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the F5 compared to the GM1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the F5 and GM1 is 96 and 93 respectively.

Normally, its difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading technical specs. The graphic below should provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the F5 and GM1.

As you can tell, both the cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The F5 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic GM1 will offer more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos more aggressively. The older F5 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.