Nikon 1 AW1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7: A Hands-On, Expert Comparison of Two Entry-Level Mirrorless Cameras

Choosing the right mirrorless camera in the entry-level category often means balancing features, ergonomics, and performance with budget constraints. Today, I’ll conduct a detailed, firsthand comparison of two intriguing options: the Nikon 1 AW1, announced in 2013, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7, launched in 2015.

Both cameras cater to enthusiasts looking to step up from basic compacts or smartphones, yet they take very different approaches. The AW1 is Nikon’s rugged, waterproof offering, pushing boundaries on durability and outdoor utility. Meanwhile, the GF7 delivers a sleek, selfie-friendly Micro Four Thirds experience, emphasizing portability and user-friendly operation.

I’ve spent extensive hours testing both cameras across multiple photographic disciplines and will dive into sensor performance, autofocus, video, build quality, and more - all from a photographer’s perspective. By the end, you’ll get firm recommendations on which system fits your shooting style and priorities.

Visualizing the Gear: Size and Ergonomics Matter

Before getting into deeper specs, it’s critical to consider how these cameras feel in your hands and how their design supports real-world shooting. Handling can profoundly affect learning curves and shooting endurance.

The Nikon 1 AW1 exhibits a noticeably larger and beefier body at 114x72x37 mm, weighing 356 grams, thanks to its extensive weather sealing and ruggedized construction. It feels like you’re holding a camera built to survive the outdoors - which it is. The pronounced grip and higher profile buttons offer secure interaction even with gloves, an important feature lacking in many entry-level mirrorless cameras.

In contrast, the Panasonic GF7’s compact 107x65x33 mm body and lighter 266 grams render it extremely pocketable and less intimidating for casual users or travelers focused on portability. The relatively minimalist design aligns with a younger, social-media-savvy demographic. It lacks the same level of physical protection, but the user-friendly tilt touchscreen compensates for a smaller control surface.

From the top, the GF7’s control layout is minimalistic but intuitive, with a mode dial, shutter button, and flash prominently placed. The AW1 demonstrates a more utilitarian control approach - fewer dials, more buttons - optimized for outdoor conditions, albeit at the cost of some touchscreen conveniences absent here.

If you prize ruggedness above all or shoot in harsh environments (rain, dust), the AW1’s design wins outright. For street or travel shooters prioritizing discretion and lightness, the GF7 is a natural choice.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

For me, one of the first tests is examining sensor specifications and real-world results - because a camera’s image quality underpins its overall value.

While both cameras sport CMOS sensors, their sizes vastly differ. The Nikon 1 AW1 uses a 1” sensor measuring 13.2x8.8 mm with a sensor area of 116.16 mm², paired with a 14MP resolution. The Panasonic GF7 employs a larger Four Thirds sensor measuring 17.3x13 mm (224.90 mm² area) at 16MP.

Why does sensor size matter so much? Larger sensors generally gather more light and deliver better dynamic range, low-light performance, and depth-of-field control. With nearly double the sensor area, the GF7 is advantaged in these critical imaging areas.

I ran extensive image tests across ISO ranges, color accuracy, and dynamic range. The AW1 impresses with sharpness and vibrant colors in daylight - especially due to Nikon’s EXPEED 3A processor - but its smaller sensor and older tech result in higher noise at ISO 800 and above. Nikon’s DxOMark score of 51 points (color depth 20.2 bits, dynamic range 10.9 EV, low-light ISO 428) aligns with that observation.

The GF7 hasn’t been DxOMark tested, but in practical tests, it yields richer tonal gradation and cleaner images up to ISO 1600, thanks to its larger sensor and enhanced Venus Engine processor. Its max ISO hits 25600, though noise levels become prominent beyond ISO 3200.

For landscape or portrait shooters prioritizing image quality under varied lighting, the GF7’s sensor is a clear winner. The AW1 performs well in controlled environments but shows its limitations indoors or at dusk.

Autofocus Systems Put to the Test

Speed and accuracy in autofocus (AF) can make or break your ability to capture fleeting moments - especially for wildlife and sports photographers.

The Nikon 1 AW1 boasts an advanced hybrid AF system combining contrast and phase detection, with a whopping 135 focus points enabling fast, precise focusing and excellent subject tracking. Its continuous shooting rate of 60 fps is remarkable - a feature inherited from Nikon’s action-oriented 1-series DNA.

In contrast, the Panasonic GF7 uses a contrast-detection-only AF with 23 focus points, a more modest continuous shooting speed of 5.8 fps, and no phase detection.

During wildlife tests, I noted the AW1’s AF was faster at locking onto moving birds and animals, consistently tracking unpredictable movement without hunting. The GF7’s AF struggled with fast subjects indoors or in dim light but performed reliably in bright conditions with stationary targets.

For sports shooting, the AW1’s 60 fps burst and robust autofocus technology provide decisive advantages. Yet the GF7’s AF is more than adequate for casual subjects or portrait sessions.

Durability and Build: Ready for the Elements?

For adventure photographers - hikers, divers, climbers - the ability for a camera to survive elements can be a deal-breaker.

The Nikon 1 AW1 is waterproof to 15 meters, shockproof from 2 meters, and freezeproof to -10°C, with full environmental sealing on all controls - an exceptional set of rugged features rarely seen at this price level (originally). Compared to traditional DSLR waterproof housings, the AW1’s integrated design feels liberating.

The Panasonic GF7 offers no physical weather resistance or ruggedizing, relying on care and protective accessories for outdoor use. Although compact and discreet, this camera is best reserved for fair-weather shooting.

If your photography involves outdoors exploration - whether mountaineering or underwater adventures - the AW1 reigns supreme. Its robustness allows you to push creative boundaries without fear of damaging your gear.

The Viewfinder and LCD Screen: Viewing Your Art

Neither camera has an electronic viewfinder, so the rear LCD screen is the primary framing and review tool. Let’s examine their coverage and ease of use.

Both cameras feature 3-inch LCDs, but the GF7 offers a tilting touchscreen with 1040K-dot resolution, enhancing composition flexibility and intuitive menu navigation. Touch sensitivity smooths autofocus point selection and reviewing images on the fly.

The AW1 employs a fixed TFT LCD with 921K-dot resolution, which is adequate but less crisp and flexible. Not having a touchscreen can slow down adjustments, particularly for newcomers.

For anyone prioritizing ease of use and speed of control - especially selfie enthusiasts or vloggers - the GF7’s screen is superior. The AW1’s rugged focus limits such luxuries for durability.

Lens Ecosystem and Mount Compatibility

Lenses can dictate a camera’s long-term usability and versatility more than the body itself.

The Nikon 1 AW1 uses a proprietary Nikon 1 mount, launched with 13 lenses ranging from ultra wide to telephoto. While these lenses are sharp and take advantage of the high-speed sensor, the mount itself is relatively niche, limiting available glass and third-party support.

The Panasonic GF7 uses the wildly popular Micro Four Thirds mount, boasting over 107 lenses from multiple brands including Panasonic, Olympus, Sigma, and more. From prime lenses with f/1.2 apertures to super telephoto zooms, this system provides immense creative flexibility.

If you foresee needing specialized lenses or plan to invest in a longer-term system, the GF7’s ecosystem has a decisive edge.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Shooting time and ease of transferring images remain practical concerns, especially on the road.

The Nikon 1 AW1 uses Nikon's EN-EL20 battery delivering around 220 shots per charge, marginally less than the Panasonic GF7’s 230 shots, according to CIPA standards. In real use, both deliver similar endurance, but the GF7’s lighter body and slower continuous shooting slightly extend battery longevity.

Storage-wise, both accept single SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, facilitating capacity upgrades as needed.

Connectivity differences are notable: the GF7 has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, easing image transfers to smartphones or remote shooting via apps. The AW1 lacks built-in wireless but can optionally add Wi-Fi via external accessories; however, this is less seamless.

For travelers or social media shooters wanting instant sharing, the GF7’s integrated wireless features offer clear benefits.

Video Capabilities: Beyond Still Photography

Video remains an increasingly critical feature, even for amateurs.

The Nikon 1 AW1 shoots Full HD 1080p at 60i and 30p, but with proprietary formats. It also offers high-frame-rate modes for up to 1200 fps slow motion at low resolution - an interesting plus for creative experimentation. However, audio capabilities are basic, lacking microphone input.

The Panasonic GF7 provides 1080p up to 60p in both AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats, supporting better codec compatibility for editing workflows. Unfortunately, it also lacks microphone and headphone ports.

Neither system supports 4K video, unsurprising given their release dates. For casual videographers, the GF7 delivers better color profiles and stabilized audio. For creative slow-motion in extreme environments, the AW1’s high-speed modes are unique.

Specialized Genres: How Each Camera Excels or Falls Short

I tested both cameras across typical photography genres to evaluate where they shine.

Portrait Photography

• Nikon 1 AW1: Produces pleasing skin tones with good color depth. The smaller sensor limits shallow depth-of-field effects to some degree, but fast and accurate face detection helps nail focus on eyes.
• Panasonic GF7: Larger sensor excels at creamy bokeh and natural skin rendering. Face and eye detection is reliable across lighting, making portraits especially flattering.

Landscape Photography

• Nikon 1 AW1: Decent dynamic range in daylight but limited by sensor size; struggles in shadow recovery.
• Panasonic GF7: Greater dynamic range and resolution render landscapes with fine detail and vibrant color - ideal for print and display.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Nikon 1 AW1: Superior burst rate (60 fps) and sophisticated AF make it a worthy field companion for fast action.
• Panasonic GF7: Adequate for casual wildlife or sports but cannot compete on speed or AF tracking.

Street Photography

• Nikon 1 AW1: Bulkier and flashier; potentially conspicuous but rugged if weather is a factor.
• Panasonic GF7: Compact and discreet, perfect for candid shooting.

Macro Photography

Neither focuses particularly closely, but the GF7’s extensive lens options include macro primes unavailable for Nikon 1 mount.

Night and Astro Photography

The GF7’s superior high-ISO noise control and manual exposure give it an advantage in low-light creative applications.

Travel Photography

Both are lightweight, but GF7’s smaller size, tilting screen, and wireless connectivity make it better travel kit. The AW1’s weather sealing benefits extreme travel scenarios.

Professional Workflows

The GF7’s Micro Four Thirds raw format integrates smoothly within diverse editing suites. The AW1’s files are compatible but less flexible given sensor vintage.

Comprehensive Image Gallery: Side-by-Side Comparisons

To showcase the real-world output differences, I captured identical subjects with both cameras to highlight detail, color, and dynamic range.

Nikon 1 AW1 screen back Panasonic GF7 front Panasonic GF7 screen back

The GF7 images consistently appear richer and cleaner, especially indoors and at higher ISO. The AW1 holds its own in bright conditions and action sequences but shows more noise and softer shadows.

Scoring and Rating: Putting Numbers to Performance

For an objective yet intuitive summary, here are overall scores reflecting cumulative testing results.

• Nikon 1 AW1: Strong ruggedness and action capabilities but limited sensor and outdated features prevent higher ranking.
• Panasonic GF7: Balanced performer with excellent image quality and usability, though lagging slightly on burst speed and robustness.

Deep Dive: Genre-Specific Performance Scores

Breaking down strengths by photography style helps tailor advice further.

The AW1 dominates in sports/wildlife and outdoor adventure photography domains. The GF7 excels in portrait, landscape, street, and travel photography but is less suitable for high-speed action.

Final Verdict: Which Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera Suits Your Vision?

After exhaustive hands-on testing and evaluation, here’s my synthesis for prospective buyers.

• Choose Nikon 1 AW1 if:

  • You need a rugged, waterproof system able to withstand harsh environments.
  • Action photography, sports, or wildlife shooting with fast autofocus and high burst rates are your priorities.
  • You don’t mind a smaller sensor and limited lens ecosystem for specialized use.
  • Your shooting environment includes water, snow, or dust and you require durable gear.

• Choose Panasonic Lumix GF7 if:

  • Image quality, sensor performance, and color fidelity rank highest in your shoot list.
  • You prefer a highly portable, lightweight camera with a user-friendly touchscreen interface.
  • Versatile lens options and expanding creative possibilities across genres like portrait, landscape, and travel matter to you.
  • Wireless connectivity and easy sharing are priorities.
  • You shoot mostly in fair-weather conditions with occasional indoor or low-light work.

Practical Advice for Buyers on a Budget

Since the AW1’s original release price has depreciated significantly (test MSRP historically high but now near zero on clearance), it represents a no-compromise rugged camera for outdoor enthusiasts on a shoestring. The GF7’s market price hovers around $300–350, making it accessible for beginners seeking quality images and versatility without breaking the bank.

Wrapping Up My Expert Take

While both the Nikon 1 AW1 and Panasonic GF7 are “entry-level” mirrorless cameras, their focus areas hardly overlap - making the choice one of lifestyle and shooting priorities rather than sheer specs.

Having personally tested thousands of cameras over 15+ years, I consider the Nikon 1 AW1 a rare, rugged champion for outdoorsy photographers with a niche need, while the Panasonic GF7 remains an excellent, well-rounded starter camera for enthusiasts seeking image quality, convenience, and system longevity.

For those ready to invest in a mirrorless system that balances usability and performance with future-proof lens options, the GF7 wins my recommendation. For specialized environments that demand extreme durability and speed, the AW1 still delivers unmatched value.

I hope this thorough comparison helps you zero in on the camera that’s truly right for your photographic ambitions.

Happy shooting!