Panasonic GM5 vs Panasonic ZS10

In this article, we are contrasting the Panasonic GM5 versus Panasonic ZS10, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM5 (16MP) and the ZS10 (14MP) is fairly close but the GM5 (Four Thirds) and ZS10 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizes.

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The GM5 was introduced 3 years after the ZS10 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS10 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a quick view of how the GM5 matches up versus the ZS10 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS10. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GM5 Gallery and Panasonic ZS10 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GM5 offers outside measurements of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS10 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 219 grams (0.48 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic GM5 versus Panasonic ZS10 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you select at that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the GM5 versus the ZS10.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the GM5 and ZS10 is 91 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to see the difference in sensor sizes only by researching technical specs. The pic here should give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the GM5 and ZS10.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The GM5 with its larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic GM5 will render more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The fresher GM5 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.