Panasonic S1H vs Sony HX20V

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Panasonic S1H and Sony HX20V, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There is a significant difference between the resolutions of the S1H (24MP) and HX20V (18MP) and the S1H (Full frame) and HX20V (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizing.

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The S1H was brought out 7 years later than the HX20V and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S1H being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX20V being a Compact camera.

Before diving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick summary of how the S1H grades vs the HX20V in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic S1H Gallery and Sony HX20V Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S1H offers physical dimensions of 151mm x 114mm x 110mm (5.9" x 4.5" x 4.3") with a weight of 1052 grams (2.32 lbs) and the Sony HX20V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S1H and Sony HX20V in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the S1H and the HX20V.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S1H and HX20V is 52 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing just by checking specs. The graphic below will give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S1H and HX20V.

As you can plainly see, both cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The S1H because of its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic S1H will give more detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop images far more aggressively. The more recent S1H should have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.