Nikon 1 S1 vs Panasonic FZ80

In this article, we will be evaluating the Nikon 1 S1 versus Panasonic FZ80, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the image resolutions of the 1 S1 (10MP) and FZ80 (18MP) and the 1 S1 (1") and FZ80 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The 1 S1 was revealed 4 years before the FZ80 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon 1 S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the 1 S1 matches up against the FZ80 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 S1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80. The full galleries are provided at Nikon 1 S1 Gallery and Panasonic FZ80 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Nikon 1 S1 provides exterior measurements of 102mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ80 has specifications of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") accompanied by a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon 1 S1 versus Panasonic FZ80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the 1 S1 vs the FZ80.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 S1 and FZ80 is 92 and 63 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to see the gap in sensor sizing merely by looking through specs. The visual below might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 S1 and FZ80.

All in all, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The 1 S1 having a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF simpler and the Panasonic FZ80 will render more detail because of its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The older 1 S1 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.