Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GM5

Here is a detailed overview of the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GM5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the GM5 (16MP) is pretty close but the FZ40 (1/2.3") and GM5 (Four Thirds) offer different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FZ40 was released 5 years before the GM5 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick summation of how the FZ40 matches up versus the GM5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Panasonic GM5 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ40 has got physical dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GM5 has proportions of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GM5 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the FZ40 against the GM5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FZ40 and GM5 is 68 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing merely by looking through specs. The visual below will offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ40 and GM5.

All in all, both of these cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FZ40 because of its smaller sensor is going to make getting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic GM5 will provide you with greater detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The older FZ40 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.