Nikon 1 J1 vs Nikon Z30

On this page, we are reviewing the Nikon 1 J1 vs Nikon Z30, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras and they are both sold by Nikon. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the 1 J1 (10MP) and Z30 (21MP) and the 1 J1 (1") and Z30 (APS-C) have totally different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J1 was brought out 11 years prior to the Z30 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Nikon 1 J1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Nikon Z30 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the 1 J1 grades vs the Z30 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 J1 and Nikon Z30. The entire galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J1 Gallery and Nikon Z30 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J1 features exterior dimensions of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 234 grams (0.52 lbs) whilst the Nikon Z30 has specifications of 128mm x 74mm x 60mm (5.0" x 2.9" x 2.4") along with a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon 1 J1 vs Nikon Z30 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the 1 J1 against the Z30.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 J1 and Z30 is 91 and 79 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to envision the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reading specifications. The photograph here should provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 J1 and Z30.

Plainly, the 2 cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The 1 J1 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field trickier and the Nikon Z30 will offer more detail having its extra 11MP. Greater resolution will let you crop images more aggressively. The older 1 J1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.