Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Olympus E-PL9 and Panasonic GM5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Olympus E-PL9 has external dimensions of 117 x 68 x 39 mm (4.61 x 2.68 x 1.54″) and weighs 380 g (0.84 lb / 13.40 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic GM5 has external dimensions of 99 x 60 x 36 mm (3.9 x 2.36 x 1.42″) and weighs 211 g (0.47 lb / 7.44 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL9 and the Panasonic GM5. Panasonic GM5 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 18mm narrower, 8mm shorter and 3mm thinner than Olympus E-PL9.
Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL9 and the Panasonic GM5 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Here is the back view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL9 and Panasonic GM5.
Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL9 and the Panasonic GM5 Size and Weight - Back View
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Olympus E-PL9 and Panasonic GM5.
Top View Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL9 and the the Panasonic GM5 Size
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic GM5 is significantly lighter (169g ) than the Olympus E-PL9 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Also keep in mind that body weight is not the only deciding factor when comparing two interchangeable camera bodies, you also have to take into account the lenses that you will be using with these bodies. Since both Olympus E-PL9 and Panasonic GM5 have the same Micro Four Thirds lens mount and Four Thirds sized sensors, lenses will not be a differentiator on total size of the system.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Olympus PEN E-PL9 nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Mirrorless Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Olympus E-PL9 and Panasonic GM5's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
On the other hand, Olympus E-PL9 features a
Tilting screen where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels whereas the Panasonic GM5 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to E-PL9.