Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic ZS1

Below, we are looking at the Panasonic S1 versus Panasonic ZS1, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both built by Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and ZS1 (10MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and ZS1 (1/2.5") feature different sensor size.

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The S1 was released 9 years after the ZS1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a full comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the S1 grades against the ZS1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S1 offers outside measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") with a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS1 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S1 versus Panasonic ZS1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the S1 versus the ZS1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and ZS1 is 54 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizes merely by researching a spec sheet. The image below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the S1 and ZS1.

As you can see, the 2 cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The S1 due to its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic S1 will provide you with extra detail as a result of its extra 14MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images much more aggressively. The fresher S1 provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.