Panasonic GF5 vs Panasonic ZS60: Small Cameras with Big Personalities

Choosing between compact cameras can feel like comparing apples and oranges, especially when one is a mirrorless interchangeable lens system and the other a powerful superzoom fixed-lens compact. I’ve spent weeks shooting side-by-side with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS60 (also known as the TZ80 in some markets), testing them across a variety of genres, lighting conditions, and scenarios photographers love - and hate.

This hands-on comparison goes beyond glossy specs and marketing buzz: I’ll break down how these two cameras hold up in portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports, macro, night and astrophotography, video, travel, and professional use - providing seasoned advice grounded in real use, technical analysis, and honest critique.

Size, Feel, and Handling: Form Meets Function

On first glance, the Panasonic GF5 and the ZS60 occupy similar corners of the camera realm - modestly sized, approachable, and designed for convenience. But digging deeper, we see their ergonomics diverge significantly.

The GF5, announced in 2012, carries the classic Micro Four Thirds mirrorless signature: rangefinder-style body, minimalist yet functional controls, and a reassuring heft for its class. Its 108x67x37mm footprint and featherweight 267g make it friendly for extended hand-held use, especially paired with compact MFT lenses. Handling feels confident, with a comfortable grip and no awkward control placements - a boon during longer shoots. The fully fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with 920k dots lacks a viewfinder, so you’ll rely entirely on the rear LCD for composition, which means bright outdoor conditions can pose a slight challenge.

The ZS60, a 2016 model, leans into the compact superzoom domain - pocketable with 112x64x38mm dimensions and weighing in at 282g. It’s slightly longer (thanks to that monstrous 30x optical zoom) but slimmer. Surprisingly, the ergonomics invite one-handed operation, although that long zoom can create a subtle forward bias. The ZS60 boasts an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 1166k-dot resolution - very handy for composing in bright conditions, and a rarity in this superzoom class. The bright and slightly higher resolution 3-inch LCD screen (1040k dots) supports touch control, although I noticed it’s a bit less responsive than modern standards.

For photographers torn between ultimate portability and comfortable grip, the GF5 edges out - its physical design feels less cramped during continuous shooting, especially when used with additional lenses. But if visual clarity outdoors is a priority, the ZS60’s EVF is a game-changer in this category.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Here is where our two contenders part ways - the GF5 sports a much larger Four Thirds sensor (17.3 x 13 mm, 12 MP) versus the ZS60’s tiny 1/2.3” sensor (6.17 x 4.55 mm, 18 MP). That’s a sensor area difference of nearly eight times!

Over the years, I’ve learned that sensor size profoundly influences key image characteristics - dynamic range, noise performance, color depth, and depth of field control. The GF5 features a traditional CMOS sensor with a 12-megapixel resolution sufficient for vibrant prints and cropping flexibility. The ZS60, meanwhile, crams 18 MPs into its tiny chip, which means smaller microlenses, generally more noise, and lower ISO latitude.

Testing under controlled studio lighting with RAW workflow confirms expectations. The GF5 yields cleaner images at ISO 160-800, with good color depth (DxO color depth score of 20.5) and respectable dynamic range (~10 EV on DxOMark). Its low-light ISO capability maxes around 573 with usable image quality.

The ZS60, typical for 1/2.3” sensors, pegs out dynamic range slightly higher (10.6 EV), but suffers at higher ISOs - its best low-light ISO usable performance is around 109 (quite limited). Despite the higher pixel count on paper, the smaller sensor struggles with noise above ISO 800. Its color depth rating (19.3) is adequate but not stellar.

In practical terms, this means the GF5 confidently handles situations demanding nuanced tone and shadow detail - think landscapes at dawn or environmental portraits with atmospheric lighting.

The ZS60 excels in daylight or well-lit conditions where its long 30x zoom can flex its muscles without calamity from noise or dynamic range limitations.

What About the Screen and Viewfinder?

Both cameras offer fixed 3-inch screens with touchscreen support, though the ZS60’s higher resolution panel is noticeably crisper.

However, the GF5’s TFT screen boasts wider viewing angles, which surprised me positively - something to consider if you frequently shoot off-axis or at awkward positions. Not having a built-in EVF on the GF5 means relying on the rear screen alone, which can hamper shooting in full sun.

The ZS60’s electronic viewfinder changes the game for street and travel shooters who want clear framing without squinting or shading - with 100% coverage and 0.46x magnification, it provides a truly usable alternative to optical viewfinders or the rear LCD alone. I found the EVF refresh rate adequate and legible, though a bit laggy in rapid motion scenes.

Autofocus and Speed: Catching the Moment

Autofocus systems can literally mean the difference between a keeper and a throwaway shot - especially in wildlife, sports, or kids-on-the-run scenarios.

The GF5’s contrast-detection AF features 23 focus points tailored for careful composition. It delivers snappy, accurate focusing in good light and reasonable low light, but contrast-detect systems’ typical hunting is evident when shooting in dim scenarios or tracking moving subjects. Face detection is supported, enhancing portraits.

The ZS60 ups the AF ante with 49 points and inclusion of continuous AF, live tracking, and eye detection. Though still contrast-based, the autofocus is quicker and more reliable in continuous shooting, partly thanks to the more modern Venus Engine processor and optimized algorithms. With a 10 fps burst rate compared to the GF5’s 4 fps, it captures action more fluently.

While neither camera will challenge professional-grade phase detection autofocus systems, for casual sports, wildlife, or street capture, the ZS60 feels more confident locking on.

I also tested focusing precision in macro mode and tight focusing distances - where the ZS60’s dedicated macro mode allows focus as close as 3 cm, giving unusually intimate detail for a compact zoom. The GF5, relying on interchangeable lenses, can deliver superior macro results only with dedicated macro glass, a more expensive and less portable route.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither model boasts environmental sealing; they’re best kept dry and dust-free. The GF5’s 2012 vintage shows typical solid plastic construction, with tactile buttons and a distinct absence of illuminated controls. The ZS60, more modern but still compact, offers a similar build philosophy, trading robustness for portability.

In terms of flash performance, the GF5’s built-in flash reaches slightly farther (~6.3 m) than the ZS60’s (~5.6 m), but again, I’d consider external flash options for serious indoor or low-light shooting if you pair with the GF5.

Battery life is comparable, with around 360 shots for the GF5 versus 320 for the ZS60. Neither breaks records, so carrying spares is advisable for all-day shoots.

Lens Ecosystem: Flexibility vs. Zoom Range

The GF5 is a Micro Four Thirds camera, meaning it works with one of the largest and most mature mirrorless lens ecosystems - a major strength for photographers who enjoy evolving their gear. With over 100 lenses available at announcement and counting, options range from ultra-wide primes to professional telephotos and specialty glass. As someone who’s handled this system extensively, I can attest to the benefits of this wide compatibility for creativity and quality.

Conversely, the ZS60’s integrated 24–720 mm (35mm equivalent) zoom lens is remarkable for its reach, making it a one-stop travel and all-purpose camera. The f/3.3-6.4 aperture range isn’t especially bright, limiting bokeh potential and low-light performance, but for day-to-day snapshooting, wildlife at a distance, and landscape flexibility, it delivers remarkable convenience.

Video: A Tale of Two Eras

Surprisingly, the ZS60 supports 4K UHD recording at 30p alongside Full HD 60fps modes and 4K photo modes, accommodating the modern content creator’s needs, especially for casual video or social media. Video stabilization is optical, delivering smoother handheld footage.

The GF5 - from the earlier 2012 generation - offers respectable Full HD (1080p) at 60/50 fps but lacks 4K recording, built-in stabilization, and microphone jacks. It’s suitable for basic video but won’t satisfy creators demanding higher resolution or better stabilization.

Neither has headphone jacks or external mic inputs, a limitation affecting serious videographers.

Real-World Photography Tests Across Genres

To give you context beyond the pixel peeping, I conducted extensive real-world testing of both cameras across photography genres. Here’s how they stack up:

Portraiture

Portraits thrive on sharp eyes, pleasing skin tones, and creamy bokeh. The GF5’s larger sensor and MFT lenses lend themselves to shallow depth of field and better subject isolation. Face detection helps frame the perfect moment, though I missed eye-detection autofocus, which the ZS60 lacks too. The ZS60’s tiny sensor makes bokeh challenging, but it remains decent for casual snaps.

Landscapes

Landscape photographers prize resolution, dynamic range, and color fidelity. The GF5, with its larger sensor and 12 MP resolution, provides images well suited for prints or detailed crops. Its 10 EV dynamic range preserves highlights and shadows nicely in typical scenes.

The ZS60’s smaller sensor and heavier processing yield JPEGs with punchy but sometimes oversaturated colors; dynamic range is constrained, but for sharing on social media or small prints, it will suffice.

Wildlife

For telephoto reach and burst shooting, the ZS60 holds a clear advantage with its 30x zoom and 10 fps bursts. The GF5 can reach longer focal lengths but requires heavier, pricier lenses. Autofocus tracking on the ZS60 is a bit more reliable for fast subjects, though neither camera replaces professional wildlife gear.

Sports

Neither camera is built for action sports. With a 4 fps continuous shooting rate, the GF5 may miss fast sequences completely. The ZS60’s 10 fps burst is more forgiving, but slower AF and limited tracking remain hurdles for challenging action.

Street Photography

Portability, responsiveness, and discretion make or break street cameras. The GF5’s silent shutter mode is absent, limiting candid shooting options. The ZS60’s electronic shutter reaches up to 1/16,000s allowing silent shots, ideal in quiet scenes or museums. The EVF and touchscreen also improve usability.

Macro

The ZS60’s close focusing to 3cm and post-focus mode facilitate handheld macro shooting without additional lenses. The GF5 requires specialized macro lenses. For casual macro photography, ZS60 wins on convenience.

Night and Astrophotography

The GF5’s larger sensor grants better noise performance at high ISOs, a must for starscapes and night scenes. Its minimum ISO of 160 fits better with long exposures without excess noise. The ZS60 struggles at high ISO and thus is less recommended.

Video

As mentioned, the ZS60’s 4K capability and optical stabilization make it a compact video tool. The GF5 is solid for 1080p basics but lacks advanced features.

Travel Photography

For travel, the ZS60’s all-in-one zoom and EVF are big selling points. The GF5’s lens interchangeability brings quality but more bulk and complexity.

Professional Work

The GF5 offers RAW shooting and Micro Four Thirds lens compatibility, fitting semi-pro workflows, and higher quality final outputs. The ZS60 shoots RAW but is best seen as a versatile travel compact.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery

Both cameras support SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The ZS60 includes wireless connectivity for image sharing - a boon for on-the-go social shooters. Neither has Bluetooth or NFC, which might feel limiting now but was typical for their release periods.

Battery life differences are minor, suggesting the choice should hinge on use style - carry spares or accept compromises for lightweight packages.

Verdict and Recommendations

Panasonic GF5 front Panasonic GF5 screen back Panasonic ZS60 front Panasonic ZS60 screen back

Who Should Consider the Panasonic GF5?

• You crave a compact mirrorless body with a larger Four Thirds sensor for superior image quality.
• You enjoy switching lenses and exploring varied photographic techniques.
• Portrait, landscape, and night photographers wanting cleaner images with better ISO performance will appreciate the GF5.
• You aren’t in a rush for video specs beyond 1080p.
• Enjoy gradual system upgrades with the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem.

Who Should Lean Toward the Panasonic ZS60?

• You want a true all-in-one compact with an extraordinary 30x zoom in your pocket.
• Video recording in 4K and higher frame rates are important.
• Action, wildlife, and street photographers valuing fast burst rates and silent electronic shutter modes.
• Casual photographers needing macro capability without extra gear.
• Travelers wanting minimal fuss and maximum lens versatility without carrying multiple lenses.

In Closing

Both cameras embody distinct philosophies shaped by their eras and target markets. The Panasonic GF5 remains a quietly competent entry-level mirrorless camera, ideal for enthusiasts valuing image quality and lens ecosystem richness. The Panasonic ZS60 pushes the limits of compact superzoom tech, delivering versatility and sporty features in a pocket-sized package.

My advice after extensive side-by-side testing? Define your photographic priorities carefully: Choose the GF5 for image quality and creative control; opt for the ZS60 for versatility and convenience. And remember, cameras are tools - not miracles. Great images often come down to the photographer rather than just megapixels or zoom range.

Happy shooting!

This article is based on personal hands-on testing and technical measurements, aiming to provide balanced, user-focused insights to support your next camera purchase.