Panasonic GX1 vs Samsung NX500

Below, we are reviewing the Panasonic GX1 vs Samsung NX500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Panasonic and Samsung. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the GX1 (16MP) and NX500 (28MP) and the GX1 (Four Thirds) and NX500 (APS-C) use different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GX1 was unveiled 4 years before the NX500 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple overview of how the GX1 grades against the NX500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 & Samsung NX500. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX1 Gallery & Samsung NX500 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GX1 has physical measurements of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs) while the Samsung NX500 has dimensions of 120mm x 64mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

See the Panasonic GX1 vs Samsung NX500 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you use at the time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the GX1 versus the NX500.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the GX1 and NX500 is 87 and 87 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to picture the gap in sensor sizes simply by researching a spec sheet. The picture underneath should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the GX1 and NX500.

Clearly, the two cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The GX1 using its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Samsung NX500 will render greater detail having an extra 12MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more aged GX1 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.