Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic SZ5

Let's take a deeper look at the Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic SZ5, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both offered by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is fairly similar but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and SZ5 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizes.

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The GF1 was manufactured 3 years earlier than the SZ5 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a short view of how the GF1 matches up against the SZ5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF1 offers physical dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ5 has dimensions 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 GF1 vs Panasonic SZ5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the GF1 compared to the SZ5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GF1 and SZ5 is 85 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to see the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reading specifications. The visual underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the GF1 and SZ5.

To sum up, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The GF1 due to its larger sensor will make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic SZ5 will deliver greater detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.