Panasonic GF5 vs Sony HX7V

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Panasonic GF5 vs Sony HX7V, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the GF5 (12MP) and HX7V (16MP) and the GF5 (Four Thirds) and HX7V (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor size.

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The GF5 was introduced 9 months later than the HX7V so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX7V being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the GF5 matches up versus the HX7V with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF5 Gallery and Sony HX7V Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF5 comes with physical measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Sony HX7V has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GF5 vs Sony HX7V in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is the front view size comparison of the GF5 against the HX7V.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the GF5 and HX7V is 89 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements just by reading through specs. The graphic below will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the GF5 and HX7V.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GF5 having a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Sony HX7V will resolve more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern GF5 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.