Panasonic GX850 vs Sony NEX-5N

Here is a detailed comparison of the Panasonic GX850 and Sony NEX-5N, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by brands Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the GX850 (16MP) and the NEX-5N (16MP) is very close but the GX850 (Four Thirds) and NEX-5N (APS-C) come with different sensor dimensions.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The GX850 was brought out 5 years later than the NEX-5N and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a complete comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the GX850 scores against the NEX-5N in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850 and Sony Alpha NEX-5N. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GX850 Gallery and Sony NEX-5N Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic GX850 has external dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5N has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

See the Panasonic GX850 and Sony NEX-5N in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have during that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the GX850 against the NEX-5N.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the GX850 and NEX-5N is 90 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizing simply by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph below will give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the GX850 and NEX-5N.

As you can see, the two cameras enjoy the same exact MP but different sensor sizing. The GX850 uses the smaller sensor which will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult. The newer GX850 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.