Panasonic S1 vs Sony S980

Here is a comprehensive overview of the Panasonic S1 vs Sony S980, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Panasonic and Sony. There exists a considerable gap among the sensor resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and S980 (12MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and S980 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor sizes.

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The S1 was manufactured 10 years later than the S980 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the S1 matches up versus the S980 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S1 comes with external dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") and a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) and the Sony S980 has measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S1 vs Sony S980 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the S1 compared to the S980.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and S980 is 54 and 94 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing only by checking out technical specs. The visual below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the S1 and S980.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S1 because of its bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic S1 will provide greater detail due to its extra 12MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent S1 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.