Panasonic GF1 vs Samsung NX500

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Panasonic GF1 vs Samsung NX500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Samsung. There exists a sizable gap between the image resolutions of the GF1 (12MP) and NX500 (28MP) and the GF1 (Four Thirds) and NX500 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The GF1 was manufactured 6 years earlier than the NX500 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going right into a full comparison, here is a quick overview of how the GF1 grades against the NX500 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Samsung NX500. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Samsung NX500 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you are going to need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF1 features external dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX500 has sizing of 120mm x 64mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF1 vs Samsung NX500 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you select at the time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the GF1 against the NX500.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF1 and NX500 is 85 and 87 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor sizing merely by going over specs. The visual below may provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF1 and NX500.

All in all, each of the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GF1 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Samsung NX500 will deliver extra detail due to its extra 16MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.