Panasonic GF5 vs Samsung NX300M

On this page, we will be analyzing the Panasonic GF5 and Samsung NX300M, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Panasonic and Samsung. There exists a sizeable gap among the resolutions of the GF5 (12MP) and NX300M (20MP) and the GF5 (Four Thirds) and NX300M (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GF5 was announced 9 months before the NX300M which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the GF5 matches up against the NX300M with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 and Samsung NX300M. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GF5 Gallery and Samsung NX300M Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF5 comes with external measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Samsung NX300M has measurements of 122mm x 64mm x 41mm (4.8" x 2.5" x 1.6") having a weight of 331 grams (0.73 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GF5 and Samsung NX300M in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the GF5 compared to the NX300M.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GF5 and NX300M is 89 and 86 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to envision the contrast in sensor measurements merely by looking through technical specs. The graphic underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the GF5 and NX300M.

As you can tell, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The GF5 having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Samsung NX300M will result in extra detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The older GF5 will be behind in sensor technology.