Panasonic FZ47 vs Panasonic GF5

Below, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FZ47 and Panasonic GF5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are built by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ47 (12MP) and the GF5 (12MP) is pretty similar but the FZ47 (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor dimensions.

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The FZ47 was announced 8 months before the GF5 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FZ47 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a full comparison, below is a concise overview of how the FZ47 grades vs the GF5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ47 Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ47 has exterior dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") with a weight of 498 grams (1.10 lbs) and the Panasonic GF5 has proportions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ47 and Panasonic GF5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the FZ47 against the GF5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FZ47 and GF5 is 68 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to visualize the gap between sensor measurements simply by going over specs. The graphic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ47 and GF5.

All in all, the two cameras posses the exact same megapixel count albeit different sensor measurements. The FZ47 offers the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining shallower depth of field more difficult. The older FZ47 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.