Panasonic G5 vs Panasonic SZ8

Here is a in depth review of the Panasonic G5 and Panasonic SZ8, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both produced by Panasonic. The image resolution of the G5 (16MP) and the SZ8 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the G5 (Four Thirds) and SZ8 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The G5 was revealed 17 months prior to the SZ8 making them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief summary of how the G5 scores against the SZ8 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The full galleries are available at Panasonic G5 Gallery & Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic G5 comes with external measurements of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ8 has sizing of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic G5 and Panasonic SZ8 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the G5 versus the SZ8.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the G5 and SZ8 is 74 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing merely by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic underneath should give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the G5 and SZ8.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have the same resolution but not the same sensor sizing. The G5 has got the larger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field simpler. The older G5 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.