Canon SD780 IS vs Panasonic GF1

Here, we will be matching up the Canon SD780 IS versus Panasonic GF1, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Canon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SD780 IS (12MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is pretty close but the SD780 IS (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) have different sensor sizing.

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The SD780 IS was launched 7 months earlier than the GF1 so they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Canon SD780 IS being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a full comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SD780 IS scores versus the GF1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SD780 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The complete galleries are viewable at Canon SD780 IS Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Canon SD780 IS comes with outside dimensions of 87mm x 56mm x 18mm (3.4" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) while the Panasonic GF1 has specifications of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Check out the Canon SD780 IS versus Panasonic GF1 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 have at that moment. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the SD780 IS versus the GF1.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the SD780 IS and GF1 is 96 and 85 respectively.

Generally, its tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizes purely by looking through a spec sheet. The picture below might provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the SD780 IS and GF1.

As you can see, both of the cameras feature the identical resolution albeit different sensor sizes. The SD780 IS uses the smaller sensor which is going to make getting bokeh more challenging. The more aged SD780 IS will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.