Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic GM1

In this write-up, we are looking at the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic GM1, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are produced by Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap between the image resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and GM1 (16MP) and the FX78 (1/2.3") and GM1 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The FX78 was announced 3 years before the GM1 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a complete comparison, below is a quick overview of how the FX78 scores against the GM1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FX78 Gallery & Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera often, you will need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FX78 has physical dimensions of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Panasonic GM1 has dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic GM1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the FX78 against the GM1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FX78 and GM1 is 95 and 93 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reviewing specs. The visual below will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FX78 and GM1.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FX78 having a tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic GM1 will offer you extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The older FX78 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.