Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic SZ7

On this page, we are analyzing the Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic SZ7, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both built by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM5 (16MP) and the SZ7 (14MP) is fairly well matched but the GM5 (Four Thirds) and SZ7 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizing.

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The GM5 was launched 2 years after the SZ7 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ7 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the GM5 matches up vs the SZ7 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM5 Gallery & Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera often, you'll have to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GM5 provides external measurements of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ7 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic SZ7 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the GM5 against the SZ7.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the GM5 and SZ7 is 91 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at specs. The picture underneath might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the GM5 and SZ7.

All in all, each of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The GM5 featuring a larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic GM5 will resolve more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop images more aggressively. The fresher GM5 should have an edge in sensor technology.