Panasonic GF5 vs Samsung NX5

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Panasonic GF5 and Samsung NX5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Samsung. The image resolution of the GF5 (12MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is pretty well matched but the GF5 (Four Thirds) and NX5 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

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The GF5 was revealed 23 months after the NX5 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the GF5 grades vs the NX5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 & Samsung NX5. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GF5 Gallery & Samsung NX5 Gallery.

If you're going to travel with your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF5 provides outside measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Samsung NX5 has sizing of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic GF5 and Samsung NX5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the GF5 vs the NX5.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the GF5 and NX5 is 89 and 80 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions just by checking a spec sheet. The picture below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GF5 and NX5.

As you can see, both of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The GF5 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Samsung NX5 will resolve more detail because of its extra 3 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The younger GF5 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.