Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 vs Sony a5000 Comparison
Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
Sony a5000
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Brand | Panasonic | Sony | |
Model | Lumix DMC GX1 | a5000 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2011 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | November 07, 2011 | January 07, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a5000 emerges as the winner with a score of 51/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 trails behind with 43/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released within a few years of each other, with the GX1 in 2011 and the a5000 in 2014. They share similarities in size, but the a5000 is slightly smaller and lighter, measuring 110 x 63 x 36mm and weighing 269g.
The Sony a5000 outperforms the GX1 with a lower launch price of $500 compared to the GX1’s $699. This makes the a5000 a more affordable option. On the other hand, the GX1 does not have any significant advantages over the a5000.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a5000 is the better choice due to its higher score, lower price, and compact design.
Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 vs Sony a5000 Overview and Optics
The Sony a5000 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 in optics with a score of 60/100 compared to the GX1’s 42/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, no image stabilization, and a similar lens mount system (Micro 4/3 for the GX1 and Sony E for the a5000).
The Sony a5000 surpasses the GX1 in several aspects. It has a higher resolution with 20 megapixels compared to the GX1’s 16 megapixels, resulting in more detailed images. The a5000 also features a more advanced processor, the Bionz X, which contributes to better image processing and overall performance. Moreover, the Sony a5000 has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor, 79, while the GX1 only scores 55, indicating better image quality. Additionally, the a5000 has a larger sensor size, APS-C, compared to the GX1’s Micro Four Thirds sensor, allowing for improved low-light performance and a shallower depth of field.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 offers a faster shooting speed of 4.2 frames per second, compared to the a5000’s 3.5 frames per second. This advantage allows the GX1 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively.
Taking these points into consideration, the Sony a5000 is the superior option in terms of optics, with a higher resolution, better image quality, and a larger sensor size. The Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1, however, can still be a viable choice for those who prioritize shooting speed for action photography.
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Optics
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Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
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Sony a5000
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP | 20 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 | 5456 x 3632 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 | 15.4 x 23.2 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. | 4.2 fps | 3.5 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 FHD | 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. | 160 | 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. | 12,800 | 16,000 | |
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. | 160 | 100 | |
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. | 12800 | 16000 | |
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/ 4000 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 | 25 | |
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. | None | None |
Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 vs Sony a5000 Video Performance
The Sony a5000 emerges as the winner in the video capabilities comparison, scoring 70/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 trails behind with a score of 43/100. The 27-point difference highlights the superior performance of the Sony a5000.
Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as Full HD video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the Sony a5000 outshines the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 in terms of its maximum video frame rate and time-lapse functionality. The Sony a5000 boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1’s 30fps. This allows the Sony a5000 to produce smoother and more professional-looking videos. Additionally, the Sony a5000 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 lacks. Time-lapse functionality enables users to create stunning and creative videos, making the Sony a5000 a more versatile option for video enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 does not offer any significant advantages over the Sony a5000 in terms of video capabilities. Its lower video score and lack of time-lapse functionality make it a less desirable option for those seeking advanced video features.
Taking these points into consideration, it is clear that the Sony a5000 is the better camera for video capabilities. Its higher maximum video frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality provide users with more creative options, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 falls short in these areas. The 27-point difference in their scores signifies the superiority of the Sony a5000 in the realm of video performance.
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Video
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Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
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Sony a5000
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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. | 30 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. | AVCHD, MP4 | MP4 |
Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 vs Sony a5000 Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 wins in the features comparison with a score of 49/100, while the Sony a5000 scores 37/100. Both cameras share some specifications, like having a 3-inch screen size and no GPS or Bluetooth capabilities. However, there are some differences that make one camera better than the other in certain aspects.
The Lumix GX1 has a touchscreen, which the Sony a5000 lacks. This feature makes it easier for users to navigate menus and adjust settings quickly. Additionally, the GX1’s screen resolution is slightly lower at 460,000 dots compared to the a5000’s 460,800 dots, but this difference is negligible and does not significantly impact the user experience.
On the other hand, the Sony a5000 has a flip screen, which is not present in the Lumix GX1. This feature allows users to take selfies or record videos from different angles more conveniently. Furthermore, the a5000 has built-in WiFi, enabling users to transfer photos and videos to other devices without the need for cables or card readers.
While the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 has a higher feature score and a touchscreen, the Sony a5000 offers a flip screen and WiFi capabilities. These differences highlight the unique strengths of each camera, catering to different user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s priorities and which features they value the most.
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Features
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Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
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Sony a5000
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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 | TFT 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. | 460,000 dots | 460,800 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 GX1 vs Sony a5000 Storage and Battery
The Sony a5000 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 in storage and battery with a score of 24/100 compared to 21/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a5000 also accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo cards, giving it an advantage in storage options.
The battery life of the Sony a5000 is another winning factor, providing 420 shots compared to the Panasonic GX1’s 310 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, with the a5000 using the NP-FW50 and the GX1 using the DMW-BLD10. Neither camera offers USB charging capabilities.
While the Panasonic GX1 loses in this comparison, it still provides sufficient storage and battery life for casual photography. The Sony a5000, with its longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility, is the better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery performance.
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Storage and Battery
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Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
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Sony a5000
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | DMW-BLD10 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 310 shots | 420 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
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Sony a5000
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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.' | 21.6 bits | 23.8 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.' | 11.6 EVs | 13 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' | 772 | 1089 |
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Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
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Sony a5000
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Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 vs Sony a5000 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1 or the Sony a5000:
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User Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC GX1
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Sony a5000
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B&H photo video |
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