Panasonic G5 vs Panasonic ZS40

The following is a extensive analysis of the Panasonic G5 and Panasonic ZS40, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are manufactured by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the G5 (16MP) and the ZS40 (18MP) is pretty similar but the G5 (Four Thirds) and ZS40 (1/2.3") provide different sensor sizing.

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The G5 was introduced 17 months before the ZS40 which makes them a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a short view of how the G5 grades against the ZS40 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic G5 Gallery and Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic G5 has got exterior measurements of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") with a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS40 has measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic G5 and Panasonic ZS40 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the G5 and the ZS40.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the G5 and ZS40 is 74 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions merely by reading specifications. The picture below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the G5 and ZS40.

To sum up, the 2 cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The G5 having a bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh easier and the Panasonic ZS40 will offer extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged G5 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.