Panasonic G5 vs Panasonic SZ5

Following is a extended review of the Panasonic G5 and Panasonic SZ5, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the G5 (16MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is relatively close but the G5 (Four Thirds) and SZ5 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The G5 was released very close to the SZ5 and they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a thorough comparison, here is a brief view of how the G5 scores versus the SZ5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic G5 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic G5 provides exterior dimensions of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ5 has specifications of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic G5 and Panasonic SZ5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached during that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the G5 and the SZ5.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the G5 and SZ5 is 74 and 95 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizes simply by researching specs. The pic here should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the G5 and SZ5.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The G5 featuring a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic G5 will result in greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots way more aggressively.