Canon 20D vs Panasonic L1

On this page, we are contrasting the Canon 20D and Panasonic L1, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by competitors Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the 20D (8MP) and the L1 (7MP) is fairly similar but the 20D (APS-C) and L1 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The 20D was manufactured 3 years prior to the L1 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before delving into a detailed comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the 20D matches up versus the L1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon EOS 20D and Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1. The entire galleries are available at Canon 20D Gallery and Panasonic L1 Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Canon 20D has outside measurements of 144mm x 106mm x 72mm (5.7" x 4.2" x 2.8") with a weight of 770 grams (1.70 lbs) and the Panasonic L1 has measurements of 146mm x 87mm x 77mm (5.7" x 3.4" x 3.0") with a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs).

Look at the Canon 20D and Panasonic L1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the 20D against the L1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the 20D and L1 is 59 and 65 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to see the difference between sensor measurements only by reviewing a spec sheet. The visual underneath will offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the 20D and L1.

As you can see, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The 20D due to its larger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Canon 20D will offer extra detail due to its extra 1MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics more aggressively. The older 20D is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.