Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GM1

Below, we are looking at the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GM1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the GM1 (16MP) is fairly close but the FZ40 (1/2.3") and GM1 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor dimensions.

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The FZ40 was launched 4 years earlier than the GM1 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise overview of how the FZ40 grades versus the GM1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera often, you're going to have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FZ40 offers outside dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GM1 has specifications of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") with a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GM1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the FZ40 against the GM1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ40 and GM1 is 68 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to picture the gap in sensor sizing purely by viewing technical specs. The photograph underneath might give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ40 and GM1.

As you can tell, both of the cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FZ40 because of its smaller sensor is going to make getting bokeh more challenging and the Panasonic GM1 will render more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older FZ40 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.