Panasonic GF5 vs YI M1

Let's look more closely at the Panasonic GF5 versus YI M1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Panasonic and YI. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the GF5 (12MP) and M1 (20MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor size (Four Thirds).

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The GF5 was announced 5 years earlier than the M1 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a short highlight of how the GF5 grades vs the M1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 & YI M1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF5 Gallery & YI M1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF5 comes with exterior 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) whilst the YI M1 has sizing of 114mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.5" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 350 grams (0.77 lbs).

See the Panasonic GF5 versus YI M1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the GF5 and the M1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GF5 and M1 is 89 and 87 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to picture the difference in sensor measurements just by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic below should offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the GF5 and M1.

Clearly, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You can expect to see the YI M1 to render greater detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The older GF5 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.