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 Panasonic GF7 and Olympus E-PL5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic GF7 has external dimensions of 107 x 65 x 33 mm (4.21 x 2.56 x 1.3″) and weighs 266 g (0.59 lb / 9.38 oz) (including batteries). Olympus E-PL5 has external dimensions of 111 x 64 x 38 mm (4.37 x 2.52 x 1.5″) and weighs 325 g (0.72 lb / 11.46 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic GF7 and the Olympus E-PL5. Panasonic GF7 is 4mm narrower and 5mm thinner than Olympus E-PL5 but it is also 1mm taller.
Comparison image of the Panasonic GF7 and the Olympus E-PL5 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic GF7 and Olympus E-PL5.
Comparison image of the Panasonic GF7 and the Olympus E-PL5 Size and Weight - Back View
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic GF7 and Olympus E-PL5.
Top View Comparison image of the Panasonic GF7 and the Olympus E-PL5 Size
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic GF7 is significantly lighter (59g ) than the Olympus E-PL5 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 Panasonic GF7 and Olympus E-PL5 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 Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7 nor Olympus PEN E-PL5 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
Panasonic GF7 and Olympus E-PL5's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
Both cameras feature
Tilting screens where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels.
