Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic GM1

Lets take a deeper look at the Panasonic FS42 and Panasonic GM1, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both sold by Panasonic. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and GM1 (16MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and GM1 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was released 5 years prior to the GM1 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple view of how the FS42 scores against the GM1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic FS42 features exterior dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) while the Panasonic GM1 has sizing of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FS42 and Panasonic GM1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have during that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the FS42 versus the GM1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the FS42 and GM1 is 95 and 93 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to envision the difference between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specs. The photograph below might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the FS42 and GM1.

All in all, each of the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FS42 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Panasonic GM1 will offer you extra detail as a result of its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop images a good deal more aggressively. The older FS42 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.