Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GF7

Here is a in-depth analysis of the Panasonic FZ40 and Panasonic GF7, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both built by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the GF7 (16MP) is fairly similar but the FZ40 (1/2.3") and GF7 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

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The FZ40 was unveiled 5 years prior to the GF7 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GF7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the FZ40 scores against the GF7 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Panasonic GF7 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic FZ40 has exterior measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) and the Panasonic GF7 has specifications of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FZ40 and Panasonic GF7 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is the front view size comparison of the FZ40 compared to the GF7.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FZ40 and GF7 is 68 and 90 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to envision the difference between sensor sizing simply by going over a spec sheet. The graphic below should give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ40 and GF7.

As you can see, both cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FZ40 using its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Panasonic GF7 will offer extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older FZ40 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.