Panasonic GX850 vs Panasonic SZ5

Below, we are looking at the Panasonic GX850 and Panasonic SZ5, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both built by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GX850 (16MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is very comparable but the GX850 (Four Thirds) and SZ5 (1/2.3") feature different sensor size.

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The GX850 was introduced 4 years later than the SZ5 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GX850 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple overview of how the GX850 matches up vs the SZ5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GX850 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera often, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic GX850 enjoys exterior measurements of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ5 has specifications of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GX850 and Panasonic SZ5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the GX850 vs the SZ5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the GX850 and SZ5 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to imagine the difference in sensor sizing simply by checking out specs. The visual underneath will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the GX850 and SZ5.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GX850 with its larger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh simpler and the Panasonic GX850 will provide extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The more recent GX850 provides an edge in sensor tech.