Panasonic ZS80 vs Panasonic GX1

Here is a complete assessment of the Panasonic ZS80 vs Panasonic GX1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are designed by Panasonic. There is a big difference among the resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and GX1 (16MP) and the ZS80 (1/2.3") and GX1 (Four Thirds) posses different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The ZS80 was released 6 years later than the GX1 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS80 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick overview of how the ZS80 matches up versus the GX1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery and Panasonic GX1 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you will have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS80 provides outside measurements of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") along with a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) while the Panasonic GX1 has proportions of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") having a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS80 vs Panasonic GX1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the ZS80 against the GX1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS80 and GX1 is 86 and 87 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing merely by viewing technical specs. The photograph underneath should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS80 and GX1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The ZS80 due to its smaller sensor is going to make achieving bokeh harder and the Panasonic ZS80 will provide you with extra detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots more aggressively. The fresher ZS80 should have a benefit in sensor technology.