Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 vs Sony a6000 Comparison
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5
Sony a6000
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Brand | Panasonic | Sony | |
Model | Lumix DMC-GM5 | a6000 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 15, 2014 | February 12, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
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The Sony a6000 takes the lead with a score of 57/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 follows closely with a score of 48/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2014. They share similarities in their announcement dates, with the Sony a6000 announced on February 12th and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 on September 15th.
The Sony a6000 stands out with a higher launch price of $799 compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5’s $650, indicating better features and performance. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 has a smaller size (99 x 60 x 36mm) and lighter weight (211g / 0.47lbs), making it more portable and convenient for travel.
Taking all these factors into account, the Sony a6000 emerges as a superior camera in terms of performance, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 offers greater portability and affordability for those seeking a compact travel companion.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 vs Sony a6000 Overview and Optics
The Sony a6000 triumphs over the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 in optics with a score of 67/100 compared to the GM5’s 49/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, including a CMOS sensor type, the absence of image stabilization, and a similar lens mount system (Micro 4/3 for the GM5 and Sony E for the a6000).
The Sony a6000 outperforms the GM5 in several aspects. It boasts a higher megapixel count at 24.3, allowing for more detailed and larger prints. Furthermore, the a6000 has a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second (fps), providing an advantage in capturing fast-moving subjects. Its sensor size is larger, utilizing an APS-C sensor compared to the GM5’s Micro Four Thirds sensor. This contributes to better image quality and low-light performance. The a6000 also has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 82, indicating a higher overall image quality.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 has a few advantages over the Sony a6000. It features a Venus Engine processor, which may provide slightly better color reproduction compared to the a6000’s Bionz X processor. Additionally, the GM5 has a 4:3 aspect ratio, which may be preferred by some photographers for specific compositions.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6000 proves to be the superior camera in terms of optics, offering better image quality, faster shooting speed, and a larger sensor size. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 may still appeal to photographers who prefer its aspect ratio and color reproduction capabilities.
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Optics
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Sony a6000
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP | 24.3 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4592 x 3448 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13 x 17.3 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Micro Four Thirds |  APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 5.8 fps | 11 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Micro 4/3 | Sony E | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Venus Engine | Bionz X | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  4:3 |  3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 200 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 25,600 | 25,600 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 100 | 50 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 25600 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 60 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 16000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 23 | 179 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 1,166,000 dots | 1,440,000 dots |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 vs Sony a6000 Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 comes out on top in the video department with a score of 70/100, while the Sony a6000 trails behind with a score of 56/100. Both cameras have a maximum video resolution of Full HD and dimensions of 1920 x 1080, making them capable of capturing high-quality footage. Additionally, both cameras offer a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, which allows for smooth motion in videos.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 surpasses the Sony a6000 in video capabilities mainly due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create captivating time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software. This advantage makes the DMC-GM5 a more versatile and convenient option for videographers looking to experiment with different shooting techniques.
On the other hand, the Sony a6000 does not have any noticeable advantages in its video capabilities compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5. Both cameras share the same maximum video resolution, dimensions, and frame rate, making their performance quite similar in this aspect.
Taking into account the video capabilities of both cameras, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 emerges as the superior choice due to its time-lapse functionality. This feature sets it apart from the Sony a6000 and offers users more creative possibilities for their video projects. While the Sony a6000 provides adequate video performance, it does not offer any unique advantages that make it stand out from the DMC-GM5 in this area.
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Video
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 60 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MP4, AVCHD | MPEG-4 |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 vs Sony a6000 Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 54 out of 100, while the Sony a6000 lags behind with a score of 41. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, no GPS, WIFI connectivity, and no Bluetooth. The screen resolutions are almost identical, with the Panasonic GM5 at 921,000 dots and the Sony a6000 at 921,600 dots.
The Panasonic GM5 takes the lead with its touchscreen feature, making it more user-friendly and easier to navigate through settings and options. This added convenience is a clear advantage over the Sony a6000, which does not have a touchscreen. The GM5’s higher feature score is a result of its better performance in this aspect.
However, the Sony a6000 does have one advantage over the Panasonic GM5: its flip screen. This feature allows for more versatile shooting angles and is particularly useful for capturing photos and videos from challenging perspectives. Despite its lower feature score, the Sony a6000’s flip screen is a valuable asset for certain shooting situations.
Taking into account the individual strengths of each camera, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 is the better choice for those prioritizing a touchscreen interface and ease of use. On the other hand, the Sony a6000 is more suitable for photographers who value the flexibility offered by a flip screen. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
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Features
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Sony a6000
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 921,600 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 vs Sony a6000 Storage and Battery
The Sony a6000 triumphs over the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 in the storage and battery category, scoring 21 points compared to the GM5’s 13 points. Both cameras share similarities in this aspect, with each having a single memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the a6000 also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards, adding versatility to its storage options.
The Sony a6000 outperforms the GM5 in terms of battery life, offering 360 shots per charge compared to the GM5’s 220 shots. Both cameras utilize different battery types, with the a6000 using the NP-FW50 battery and the GM5 using the DMW-BLH7 battery. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.
Despite its lower score, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 still offers reliable storage and battery options for photographers. However, the Sony a6000’s additional memory card compatibility and longer battery life make it the superior choice in this category.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | DMW-BLH7 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 220 shots | 360 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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Sony a6000
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 22.6 bits | 24.1 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 12.2 EVs | 13.1 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 718 | 1347 |
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Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5
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Sony a6000
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Alternatives to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and Sony a6000
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 or the Sony a6000:
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User Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5
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Sony a6000
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B&H photo video |
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