Hey there, fellow photography enthusiasts! I’m excited to share my deep dive into two of the most fascinating compact cameras ever made: the Panasonic Lumix GM1 and GM5. As someone who’s spent countless hours shooting with both these pocket-sized powerhouses, I can tell you they’re more than just cameras—they’re game-changers in the world of portable photography.
When I first picked up the GM1 back in 2013, I couldn’t believe how much camera Panasonic had packed into such a tiny body. Then came the GM5 in 2014, addressing many of the limitations photographers like me had been craving. Today, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about these two remarkable cameras, helping you decide which one deserves a spot in your camera bag.
Why These Tiny Cameras Still Matter in 2025?
You might be wondering why we’re even comparing cameras that are nearly a decade old. Well, let me tell you something I discovered during my extensive testing: these cameras still hold their own against many modern compacts. I’ve shot everything from street photography to travel landscapes with both the GM1 and GM5, and I’m consistently amazed by their performance.
The Micro Four Thirds system these cameras use gives you access to an incredible range of lenses, and their pocketable size means you’ll actually take them with you—something I can’t say about many larger cameras that end up collecting dust on the shelf.
Panasonic Lumix GM1 vs GM5 Design and Build Quality: Size vs Features (2025)
Panasonic Lumix GM1: The Original Pocket Wonder
The first time I held the GM1, I was blown away. Weighing just 204 grams and measuring 98.5 x 54.9 x 30.4mm, it’s truly remarkable how much camera Panasonic managed to squeeze into this tiny package. I’ve carried it in my jeans pocket during street photography sessions, and it’s so unobtrusive that subjects often don’t even realize I’m shooting.
The magnesium alloy body feels premium and solid, despite its featherweight construction. However, I’ll be honest—the buttons are tiny. When I first started using it, I found myself accidentally pressing multiple buttons at once. But after a week of regular use, I adapted and now appreciate the minimalist approach.
One thing I absolutely love about the GM1 is its built-in flash. It’s not powerful, but it’s there when you need it for fill light or those unexpected indoor shots. I’ve used it countless times during family gatherings and travel photography when I didn’t want to carry extra gear.
Panasonic Lumix GM5: The Enthusiast’s Choice
When I upgraded to the GM5, I immediately noticed the slight increase in size. At 211 grams and 98.5 x 59.5 x 36.1mm, it’s still incredibly compact but feels more substantial in hand. The extra 6mm in thickness and 7g in weight might sound negligible, but in practice, it makes the camera feel more like a “real” camera.
The biggest game-changer? The electronic viewfinder (EVF). I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been shooting in bright sunlight with the GM1, struggling to see the LCD screen. With the GM5’s EVF, those problems disappeared entirely. The viewfinder is small—don’t expect the luxurious experience of a high-end camera—but it’s perfectly usable and a lifesaver in challenging lighting conditions.
Panasonic had to make some compromises to include the EVF, though. The built-in flash is gone, replaced by a hot shoe that accommodates the included external flash. I’ll admit, I’ve misplaced the tiny flash more times than I can count, but when I remember to bring it, it works just as well as the GM1’s built-in unit.
Image Quality: Same Sensor, Different Experience
Here’s where things get interesting: both cameras use the exact same 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and Venus Engine processor. I’ve conducted side-by-side tests, and I can confirm that image quality is virtually identical between the two cameras.
Low-Light Performance
I’ve shot concerts, dimly lit restaurants, and even nighttime cityscapes with both cameras, and they perform remarkably similarly. Both handle ISO 6400 quite well, with usable results at ISO 12800 if you’re not too picky about noise. Beyond that, things get pretty grainy, but that’s expected from cameras of this generation.
One subtle difference I’ve noticed: the GM5’s colors tend to be slightly warmer, while the GM1 leans toward neutral tones. For my professional work, I shoot RAW with both cameras and adjust colors in post-processing, but for JPEG shooters, this might influence your choice.
Dynamic Range and Detail
Both cameras deliver impressive dynamic range for their size. I’ve printed 13×19-inch photos from both, and they hold up beautifully with sharp details and vibrant colors. However, if you’re planning to do heavy cropping or need the absolute best image quality, modern cameras with larger sensors will outperform these.
Real-World Shooting Experience
I took both cameras on a two-week trip through Europe, and here’s what I discovered: the GM1 was my go-to for casual snapshots and situations where discretion was key. The GM5, however, became my preferred choice when I knew I’d be shooting in varying lighting conditions or wanted more control over my settings.
Also Read: Fujifilm X-T1 vs X-T10
Video Capabilities: GM5 Takes the Lead
This is one area where the GM5 clearly outshines its predecessor. As someone who occasionally shoots video alongside stills, I appreciate the significant improvements Panasonic made.
GM1 Video Performance
The GM1 shoots Full HD 1080p at either 30fps or 24fps. For basic video needs, this is perfectly adequate. I’ve shot family vacation videos and even some basic YouTube content with the GM1, and the results are decent—good colors, reasonable detail, and acceptable stabilization when using lenses with O.I.S.
However, the GM1 lacks a microphone input, meaning you’re stuck with the built-in mono microphone. For professional video work, this is a significant limitation.
GM5 Video Excellence
The GM5 steps up the game considerably with 1080p recording at 60fps. This higher frame rate makes for smoother motion and opens up the possibility of decent slow-motion footage. I’ve shot some beautiful slow-motion clips of my kids playing and nature scenes, and the results are impressive for such a small camera.
But the real game-changer is the microphone input. I’ve connected my Rode VideoMicro to the GM5, and the audio quality improvement is night and day compared to the GM1. For vloggers or anyone serious about video quality, this feature alone might justify choosing the GM5.
The GM5 also offers better manual control during video recording, thanks to its physical control dial. I find myself making exposure adjustments on the fly much more easily than with the GM1’s touchscreen-only approach.
User Interface and Controls: Touch vs Traditional
This is where personal preference really comes into play, and I’ve found myself appreciating different aspects of each camera’s interface.
GM1: Touch-First Approach
The GM1 embraces modern camera design with its heavy reliance on the touchscreen. The 3-inch, 1,036k-dot display is sharp and responsive. I love being able to tap to focus and tap to shoot—it’s incredibly intuitive and fast for casual photography.
However, the lack of physical controls becomes apparent when you want to make quick adjustments. I’ve found myself diving into menus more often than I’d like, especially when shooting in manual mode. The rear control wheel is small and can be finicky—I’ve accidentally pressed it when trying to scroll, which can be frustrating during critical shooting moments.
GM5: The Best of Both Worlds
Panasonic really listened to user feedback when designing the GM5’s interface. The addition of a proper command dial and three customizable buttons makes a world of difference. I’ve set up my GM5 with frequently used functions like ISO adjustment and white balance on the customizable buttons, allowing me to make changes without taking my eye from the viewfinder.
The touchscreen is still there and works just as well as the GM1’s, but now it’s complemented by physical controls. I find myself using a combination of both—touchscreen for focus point selection and physical controls for exposure adjustments.
The EVF also changes how I interact with the camera. With the GM1, I was always looking at the LCD screen. With the GM5, I often use the viewfinder, which feels more traditional and helps me concentrate on composition.
Autofocus Performance: Panasonic Lumix GM1 vs GM5
Both cameras feature Panasonic’s excellent contrast-detection autofocus system, but there are subtle differences that I’ve noticed during real-world use.
GM1 Autofocus
The GM1’s autofocus is surprisingly capable for such a small camera. In good lighting, it locks onto subjects quickly and accurately. I’ve shot fast-moving kids and even some sports, and the keeper rate is respectable.
However, in low light, the GM1 can hunt a bit more than I’d like. I’ve missed some shots during indoor events because the camera struggled to find focus quickly enough.
GM5 Autofocus Improvements
The GM5 builds on the GM1’s foundation with slightly improved autofocus performance. I’ve found it to be marginally faster in good light and noticeably better in challenging lighting conditions. The addition of face and eye detection is a welcome feature—I’ve shot countless portraits where the GM5 nailed focus on the subject’s eye, even when they were moving.
The autofocus system also benefits from the EVF. I find it easier to see exactly what the camera is focusing on through the viewfinder, especially in bright conditions where the LCD might be hard to see.
Battery Life: A Draw
Both cameras use the same DMW-BLH7 battery, and real-world battery life is nearly identical. I get about 230 shots from the GM1 and around 220 from the GM5 per charge. The slight difference likely comes from the GM5’s EVF usage.
Here’s my honest advice: you’ll want to carry at least one spare battery regardless of which camera you choose. I’ve drained both cameras during a full day of shooting, and there’s nothing more frustrating than missing the perfect shot because your battery is dead.
Lens Compatibility: The MFT Advantage
One of the greatest strengths of both cameras is their compatibility with the vast Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem. I’ve tested numerous lenses on both cameras, and here are my recommendations:
Best Lenses for GM1
Given the GM1’s tiny size, I recommend sticking with compact lenses to maintain its portability advantage:
- Panasonic 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. POWER O.I.S.: This is the kit lens for a reason. It’s incredibly compact, versatile, and delivers excellent image quality. I’ve used this lens for 90% of my GM1 shooting.
- Panasonic 20mm f/1.7 ASPH.: A classic pancake lens that’s perfect for low-light situations. It adds virtually no bulk to the GM1 and produces beautiful images with pleasing bokeh.
- Olympus 12mm f/2.0: If you need a wider angle, this lens is superb. It’s slightly larger but still manageable on the GM1.
Best Lenses for GM5
The GM5’s slightly larger size opens up more lens possibilities:
- Olympus 17mm f/1.8: This compact wide-angle prime has become my favorite lens for street photography with the GM5. It’s sharp, fast, and the perfect focal length for everyday shooting.
- Panasonic 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II O.I.S.: If you need more reach than the kit lens, this is a great option. It’s still reasonably compact and offers excellent image stabilization.
- Panasonic 35-100mm f/2.8 POWER O.I.S.: For those times when you need telephoto capabilities, this lens is surprisingly compact for its range. It’s heavier than other options but delivers exceptional image quality.
Real-World Usage Scenarios: Panasonic Lumix GM1 vs GM5
Travel Photography
I’ve taken both cameras on extensive travels, and each has its strengths. The GM1 is my choice when I want to travel as light as possible. I can slip it into a jacket pocket with the 12-32mm lens and barely notice it’s there. It’s perfect for those “just in case” moments when you want a camera but don’t want the bulk.
The GM5, however, becomes my primary travel camera when I know I’ll be doing serious photography. The EVF is invaluable in bright daylight, and the better controls make it easier to adjust settings quickly when the perfect moment presents itself.
Street Photography
For street photography, both cameras excel, but in different ways. The GM1’s small size makes it incredibly discreet—I’ve shot candid street scenes where subjects had no idea I was photographing them. The touchscreen is perfect for quick focus and shoot operations.
The GM5, while slightly larger, offers more control for those decisive moments. I’ve set up my GM5 with zone focusing for street photography, and the physical controls make it easy to adjust exposure on the fly.
Portrait Photography
Neither camera is ideal for professional portrait work, but both can produce beautiful portraits in the right hands. I’ve shot some lovely portraits with both cameras using the Panasonic 20mm f/1.7 and Olympus 45mm f/1.8 lenses.
The GM5’s better controls and EVF make it slightly easier to work with for portraits, especially when you want precise control over focus and exposure.
Value Proposition in 2025
GM1: The Budget Champion
As of 2025, the GM1 represents incredible value on the used market. I’ve seen clean examples for under $200, which is an absolute steal for a camera with this level of image quality and portability. If you’re on a tight budget or want a capable second camera, the GM1 is hard to beat.
GM5: The Enthusiast’s Choice
The GM5 typically commands a higher price, usually in the $300-400 range for good used examples. While that’s significantly more than the GM1, you’re getting meaningful upgrades: the EVF, better controls, improved video capabilities, and a more enthusiast-friendly interface.
For serious photographers who will appreciate these features, the extra cost is justified. For casual shooters, the GM1 might be the smarter financial choice.
Which Camera Should You Choose In 2025?
Choose the GM1 if:
- You prioritize ultimate portability above all else
- You’re on a tight budget
- You primarily shoot in good lighting conditions
- You prefer a simple, touchscreen-based interface
- You rarely shoot video or don’t need advanced video features
Choose the GM5 if:
- You want the best possible image quality in a small package
- You frequently shoot in bright sunlight or challenging lighting
- You appreciate physical controls and customization options
- You shoot video and want better quality and audio options
- You’re willing to pay more for a more refined shooting experience
Also Read: Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 vs RF 28-70mm f/2
Final Thoughts: My Personal Choice
After months of shooting with both cameras, I’ve reached a conclusion that might surprise you: I still use both regularly, depending on the situation.
The GM1 lives in my everyday bag—it’s my “just in case” camera that’s always with me. It’s captured countless spontaneous moments that I would have missed with a larger camera.
The GM5, however, is my go-to when I know I’ll be doing serious photography. It’s traveled with me on dedicated photo trips and never failed to deliver excellent results.
If I had to choose just one, I’d probably lean toward the GM5. The EVF and better controls make it a more versatile camera overall, and the image quality is identical to the GM1. But I’d miss the GM1’s incredible portability and built-in flash.
Ultimately, both cameras represent brilliant engineering and offer incredible value in 2025. You can’t go wrong with either—you just need to decide which features matter most to your photography style.
FAQ: Panasonic Lumix GM1 vs GM5
Are the GM1 and GM5 weather-sealed?
No, neither camera offers weather sealing. I’ve been caught in light rain with both, and they survived, but I wouldn’t recommend using them in heavy precipitation without protection.
Can I use the same batteries and accessories for both cameras?
Yes! Both cameras use the same DMW-BLH7 battery, and most accessories like cases and straps are compatible. This is great if you own both cameras or plan to upgrade from one to the other.
Which camera is better for beginners?
The GM1 is more beginner-friendly with its simpler interface and built-in flash. However, the GM5’s better controls and EVF might help beginners learn photography fundamentals more effectively.
Do these cameras have in-body image stabilization?
No, neither camera has in-body stabilization. You’ll need to rely on lenses with optical stabilization (O.I.S.) for steady shots, especially in low light.
Can I shoot RAW with both cameras?
Yes, both cameras support RAW capture, which is essential for getting the most out of their image quality. I always shoot RAW when possible for maximum flexibility in post-processing.
How do these cameras compare to modern smartphones?
While modern smartphones have made huge strides in photography, both the GM1 and GM5 still offer advantages in image quality, especially in low light and when using different lenses. The ability to change lenses alone makes them more versatile than any smartphone.
Are these cameras still supported with firmware updates?
Panasonic hasn’t released firmware updates for these cameras in several years, so what you see is what you get. However, both cameras are quite mature and work very well as-is.
Pro Photography Tips for GM Series Owners
- Always carry spare batteries – These cameras aren’t power-efficient, and you don’t want to miss shots.
- Invest in good lenses – The camera body is just part of the equation. Quality lenses make a huge difference.
- Shoot RAW – You’ll thank yourself in post-processing when you have maximum flexibility.
- Use a small grip – Both cameras benefit from third-party grips for better handling.
- Master the touchscreen – It’s faster than physical controls for many operations.