Panasonic FH20 vs Panasonic GH1

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic FH20 vs Panasonic GH1, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and both are designed by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the GH1 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the FH20 (1/2.3") and GH1 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor measurements.

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The FH20 was introduced 6 months later than the GH1 and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick view of how the FH20 matches up vs the GH1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH20 Gallery and Panasonic GH1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to lug around your camera, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH20 comes with outside measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Panasonic GH1 has dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FH20 vs Panasonic GH1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the FH20 vs the GH1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH20 and GH1 is 93 and 81 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to picture the difference between sensor measurements merely by reading through specs. The photograph here will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the FH20 and GH1.

All in all, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The FH20 having a tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF trickier and the Panasonic FH20 will give greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively.