Panasonic GX850 vs Sony NEX-5

In this article, we are evaluating the Panasonic GX850 versus Sony NEX-5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the GX850 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is very comparable but the GX850 (Four Thirds) and NEX-5 (APS-C) possess different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GX850 was launched 6 years after the NEX-5 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the GX850 grades against the NEX-5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX850 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic GX850 comes with outside dimensions 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 Sony NEX-5 has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GX850 versus Sony NEX-5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the GX850 compared to the NEX-5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GX850 and NEX-5 is 90 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions simply by seeing technical specs. The image underneath will provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GX850 and NEX-5.

As you have seen, both of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The GX850 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic GX850 will produce more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics far more aggressively. The more recent GX850 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.