Panasonic GM1 vs Sony NEX-5

Below is a comprehensive review of the Panasonic GM1 and Sony NEX-5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is fairly close but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and NEX-5 (APS-C) provide different sensor dimensions.

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The GM1 was launched 3 years later than the NEX-5 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the GM1 matches up vs the NEX-5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic GM1 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM1 has got physical measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GM1 and Sony NEX-5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the GM1 compared to the NEX-5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the GM1 and NEX-5 is 93 and 89 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements simply by researching specs. The visual underneath will give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the GM1 and NEX-5.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The GM1 because of its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic GM1 will render greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more recent GM1 provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.