Leica V-Lux 4 vs Panasonic ZS1

Here, we will be evaluating the Leica V-Lux 4 vs Panasonic ZS1, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Leica and Panasonic. The image resolution of the V-Lux 4 (12MP) and the ZS1 (10MP) is pretty well matched but the V-Lux 4 (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") have different sensor sizing.

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The V-Lux 4 was launched 3 years after the ZS1 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Leica V-Lux 4 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summation of how the V-Lux 4 matches up versus the ZS1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica V-Lux 4 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The complete galleries are viewable at Leica V-Lux 4 Gallery & Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and size. The Leica V-Lux 4 has outside dimensions of 125mm x 87mm x 110mm (4.9" x 3.4" x 4.3") having a weight of 588 grams (1.30 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS1 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Analyze the Leica V-Lux 4 vs Panasonic ZS1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the V-Lux 4 against the ZS1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the V-Lux 4 and ZS1 is 65 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to picture the difference between sensor dimensions purely by reading through a spec sheet. The picture below will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the V-Lux 4 and ZS1.

As you can see, each of these cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The V-Lux 4 because of its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Leica V-Lux 4 will give you more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The fresher V-Lux 4 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.