Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic GF1

Here, we will be analyzing the Panasonic S1 and Panasonic GF1, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are created by Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the image resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and GF1 (12MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and GF1 (Four Thirds) have totally different sensor sizes.

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The S1 was revealed 9 years later than the GF1 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a thorough comparison, here is a simple view of how the S1 grades against the GF1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S1 enjoys outer dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") with a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) and the Panasonic GF1 has dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Check the Panasonic S1 and Panasonic GF1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the S1 against the GF1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S1 and GF1 is 54 and 85 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to visualise the difference in sensor measurements purely by researching technical specs. The graphic underneath may give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S1 and GF1.

As you have seen, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The S1 with its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic S1 will result in greater detail because of its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The fresher S1 is going to have an edge in sensor technology.