Panasonic G5 vs Panasonic SZ1

Lets look closer at the Panasonic G5 versus Panasonic SZ1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are created by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the G5 (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is very close but the G5 (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The G5 was launched 7 months after the SZ1 so they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the G5 matches up vs the SZ1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic G5 Gallery and Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic G5 has outer dimensions of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") with a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ1 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

See the Panasonic G5 versus Panasonic SZ1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing during that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the G5 vs the SZ1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the G5 and SZ1 is 74 and 95 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizes simply by looking through technical specs. The image below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the G5 and SZ1.

As you have seen, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact MP but not the same sensor sizes. The G5 includes the larger sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF less difficult. The more modern G5 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.