Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic GX1

Here, we are evaluating the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic GX1, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are manufactured by Panasonic. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and GX1 (16MP) and the FX78 (1/2.3") and GX1 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor size.

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The FX78 was manufactured 12 months before the GX1 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the FX78 matches up vs the GX1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Panasonic GX1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you will need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FX78 features external dimensions of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Panasonic GX1 has proportions of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FX78 and Panasonic GX1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the FX78 against the GX1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FX78 and GX1 is 95 and 87 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing purely by seeing specs. The graphic below might give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FX78 and GX1.

All in all, both of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FX78 because of its smaller sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic GX1 will provide greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos way more aggressively. The older FX78 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.