Panasonic FZ60 vs Panasonic GF5

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic FZ60 versus Panasonic GF5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are built by Panasonic. There exists a crucial gap between the sensor resolutions of the FZ60 (16MP) and GF5 (12MP) and the FZ60 (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FZ60 was unveiled 4 months later than the GF5 and they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ60 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short view of how the FZ60 scores versus the GF5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ60 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ60 Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ60 comes with exterior dimensions of 120mm x 81mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") with a weight of 493 grams (1.09 lbs) while the Panasonic GF5 has dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FZ60 versus Panasonic GF5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the FZ60 compared to the GF5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FZ60 and GF5 is 68 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizing simply by checking specs. The visual underneath will give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ60 and GF5.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FZ60 with its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Panasonic FZ60 will resolve more detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos far more aggressively.