Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic LZ30

The following is a comprehensive overview of the Panasonic S1 versus Panasonic LZ30, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Panasonic. There exists a huge gap among the resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and LZ30 (16MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and LZ30 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizes.

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The S1 was introduced 6 years after the LZ30 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LZ30 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the S1 scores against the LZ30 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic S1 Gallery and Panasonic LZ30 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and size. The Panasonic S1 has physical dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") accompanied by a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LZ30 has specifications of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") having a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic S1 versus Panasonic LZ30 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using at that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the S1 versus the LZ30.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S1 and LZ30 is 54 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions just by checking out a spec sheet. The picture underneath will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the S1 and LZ30.

Clearly, both cameras have different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The S1 with its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic S1 will show greater detail using its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The newer S1 provides a benefit in sensor innovation.