Panasonic FH20 vs Panasonic GF5

On this page, we are matching up the Panasonic FH20 vs Panasonic GF5, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the GF5 (12MP) is fairly similar but the FH20 (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor dimensions.

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The FH20 was released 3 years before the GF5 which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a concise summary of how the FH20 grades vs the GF5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FH20 Gallery & Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH20 has outside measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) while the Panasonic GF5 has measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH20 vs Panasonic GF5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the FH20 vs the GF5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the FH20 and GF5 is 93 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizes just by reading technical specs. The image below may give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FH20 and GF5.

As you can tell, the two cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FH20 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic FH20 will deliver more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos more aggressively. The more aged FH20 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.