Panasonic GF5 vs Sony NEX-7

Its time to look more in depth at the Panasonic GF5 and Sony NEX-7, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a significant gap among the image resolutions of the GF5 (12MP) and NEX-7 (24MP) and the GF5 (Four Thirds) and NEX-7 (APS-C) have totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GF5 was revealed 4 months later than the NEX-7 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a short overview of how the GF5 scores vs the NEX-7 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 and Sony Alpha NEX-7. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF5 Gallery and Sony NEX-7 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF5 offers exterior measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-7 has sizing of 120mm x 67mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 400 grams (0.88 lbs).

See the Panasonic GF5 and Sony NEX-7 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is a front view scale comparison of the GF5 vs the NEX-7.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF5 and NEX-7 is 89 and 84 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements merely by seeing specifications. The graphic below should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the GF5 and NEX-7.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GF5 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field harder and the Sony NEX-7 will provide greater detail because of its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a bit more aggressively.