Panasonic GM5 vs Sony NEX-5

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Panasonic GM5 and Sony NEX-5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the GM5 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is relatively similar but the GM5 (Four Thirds) and NEX-5 (APS-C) use totally different sensor sizes.

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The GM5 was manufactured 4 years later than the NEX-5 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief overview of how the GM5 scores versus the NEX-5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GM5 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM5 features outside 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) while the Sony NEX-5 has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GM5 and Sony NEX-5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use during that time. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the GM5 vs the NEX-5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GM5 and NEX-5 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to envision the difference between sensor measurements merely by reading specs. The photograph here should offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the GM5 and NEX-5.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GM5 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic GM5 will offer greater detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more recent GM5 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.