Panasonic GF5 vs Sony A550

On this page, we are comparing the Panasonic GF5 versus Sony A550, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the GF5 (12MP) and the A550 (14MP) is fairly close but the GF5 (Four Thirds) and A550 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The GF5 was unveiled 2 years later than the A550 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise view of how the GF5 matches up against the A550 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF5 Gallery and Sony A550 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF5 features exterior dimensions 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 Sony A550 has dimensions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") along with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF5 versus Sony A550 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the GF5 versus the A550.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the GF5 and A550 is 89 and 63 respectively.

Often, it's hard to see the difference in sensor measurements only by viewing specifications. The visual below will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the GF5 and A550.

Plainly, both the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GF5 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Sony A550 will result in greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively. The newer GF5 will have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.