Panasonic FS12 vs Panasonic GH1

Lets take a more detailed look at the Panasonic FS12 versus Panasonic GH1, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and they are both designed by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FS12 (12MP) and the GH1 (12MP) is very close but the FS12 (1/2.3") and GH1 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor sizes.

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The FS12 was launched 2 months earlier than the GH1 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple summation of how the FS12 scores vs the GH1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FS12 Gallery and Panasonic GH1 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FS12 features outside measurements of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Panasonic GH1 has measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") and a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FS12 versus Panasonic GH1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the FS12 vs the GH1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the FS12 and GH1 is 95 and 81 respectively.

Often, it's hard to visualise the difference in sensor measurements only by viewing specs. The visual below will help give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FS12 and GH1.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact MP but not the same sensor measurements. The FS12 includes the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallow DOF harder.