Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic SZ1

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Panasonic GM5 versus Panasonic SZ1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM5 (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the GM5 (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The GM5 was manufactured 2 years after the SZ1 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the GM5 matches up against the SZ1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM5 Gallery and Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM5 comes with physical dimensions of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GM5 versus Panasonic SZ1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at the time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the GM5 compared to the SZ1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the GM5 and SZ1 is 91 and 95 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to envision the gap between sensor dimensions only by checking specs. The picture here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the GM5 and SZ1.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The GM5 has the bigger sensor which should make getting shallow depth of field simpler. The newer GM5 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.