Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic LZ20

On this page, we will be looking at the Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic LZ20, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM5 (16MP) and the LZ20 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the GM5 (Four Thirds) and LZ20 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The GM5 was revealed 2 years later than the LZ20 and that is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving into a full comparison, here is a short summation of how the GM5 matches up versus the LZ20 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM5 Gallery and Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera often, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GM5 enjoys external measurements of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Panasonic LZ20 has measurements of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic LZ20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the GM5 against the LZ20.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GM5 and LZ20 is 91 and 71 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to visualise the difference between sensor measurements just by checking specs. The graphic here will give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the GM5 and LZ20.

All in all, the 2 cameras provide the same megapixels albeit not the same sensor measurements. The GM5 offers the bigger sensor which should make achieving bokeh less difficult. The younger GM5 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.