CameraReview
Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5
45
SCORE
Panasonic · Mirrorless · 12.1 MP · Micro Four Thirds · Full HD video

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5

General 45Optics 44Video Performance 43Features and Benefits 54Storage and Battery 21
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KEY FACTS
BrandPanasonic
ModelLumix DMC GF5
Released2012
Announcement date05/04/2012
Camera typeMirrorless

General 45

Brand
Panasonic
Model
Lumix DMC GF5
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2012
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
05/04/2012
Camera type
Mirrorless
Camera size
108 x 67 x 37 mm
Camera weight
267 g

Optics 44

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4000 x 3000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Micro Four Thirds
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
4 fps045
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
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
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
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
16030200
Max ISO
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.
64003003280000
Min 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.
16030200
Max 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.
128003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
6044080
Max 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.
400080032000
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.
230300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Yes
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
Viewfinder dots
N/A
Read our notes on optics

Our Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 camera receives a score of 45/100. Announced in April 2012, this mirrorless camera has been in the market for quite some time. Priced at $599 upon release, the camera measures 108 x 67 x 37mm and weighs 267g (0.59lbs). Considering its age, the specifications are decent, but they may not fare well against newer cameras with more advanced features. Despite this, the Lumix DMC GF5 still offers a solid performance in certain situations.

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 Overview and Optics

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 receives an optics score of 44 out of 100. With 12.1 megapixels, a shooting speed of 4 frames per second, and a CMOS sensor, the camera provides decent image quality. Its Venus Engine FHD processor ensures fast image processing, while the DXOMARK score of 50 for the sensor shows that it performs well in various lighting conditions.

The GF5 features a Micro Four Thirds sensor size and a Micro 4/3 lens mount, making it compatible with a wide range of lenses. The inclusion of image stabilization helps reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images. The 4:3 aspect ratio is suitable for both landscape and portrait photography.

Despite these features, the GF5’s optics specifications are not as competitive in today’s market, with many cameras offering higher megapixels, faster shooting speeds, and better sensor performance. Nonetheless, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 is a viable option for those seeking a compact camera with decent image quality and lens compatibility.

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 Video Performance 43

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD
Max video format
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
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 fps
Timelapse 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.
No
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 (Audio format AAC 2ch)
Read our notes on panasonic lumix dmc gf5 video performance

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 has a video score of 43 out of 100. Its maximum video resolution is Full HD, with dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The camera supports a maximum video frame rate of 30 frames per second. However, it lacks built-in time-lapse functionality.

In today’s market, the Lumix DMC GF5’s video capabilities are average. Many modern cameras offer higher resolutions like 4K and faster frame rates, which provide smoother and more detailed footage. Additionally, time-lapse functionality is a popular feature that this camera does not have.

The Lumix DMC GF5’s video performance is decent for casual users but falls short for those seeking advanced video features. Its score of 43 reflects its limitations compared to newer cameras with more advanced video capabilities.

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 Features and Benefits 54

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
Yes
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.
No
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
No
Screen type
TFT LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Yes
Screen size
3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
9200001150001500000
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.
No
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
No
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No
Read our notes on panasonic lumix dmc gf5 features and benefits

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 features a score of 54/100, which gives us insight into its capabilities. With a 3-inch screen size and a resolution of 920,000 dots, the camera offers a touchscreen interface but lacks a flip screen. Additionally, it does not include GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth functionalities.

Comparing these specifications to other cameras in today’s market, it is evident that the Lumix DMC GF5 falls short in certain aspects. Many contemporary cameras now come with WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities, making it easier for users to transfer photos and videos wirelessly. Furthermore, the absence of a flip screen limits the camera’s versatility for various shooting angles.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 offers basic features and could benefit from improvements to keep up with current market trends and demands.

Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 Storage and Battery 21

Memory card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
No
Battery type
DMW-BLE9E
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
360 shots1505000
USB charging
No
Read our notes on panasonic lumix dmc gf5 storage and battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5 receives a storage and battery score of 21/100. The camera has one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the battery life is limited to 360 shots per charge, using a DMW-BLE9E battery. Additionally, the camera does not support USB charging.

In today’s market, the storage capacity is standard with the single memory card slot. However, the battery life falls short compared to other cameras, which may offer longer-lasting batteries and USB charging capabilities. This could be a drawback for users who require extended shooting time without the need to constantly change or recharge batteries.

Taking these factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GF5’s storage and battery specifications are not as competitive as other options in the market.