Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic GX7

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Panasonic FZ40 and Panasonic GX7, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless and both are designed by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the GX7 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the FZ40 (1/2.3") and GX7 (Four Thirds) use different sensor measurements.

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The FZ40 was announced 4 years earlier than the GX7 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GX7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple view of how the FZ40 matches up against the GX7 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Panasonic GX7 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic FZ40 provides physical measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) while the Panasonic GX7 has sizing of 123mm x 71mm x 55mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 2.2") along with a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ40 and Panasonic GX7 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is the front view size comparison of the FZ40 against the GX7.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FZ40 and GX7 is 68 and 81 respectively.

Normally, its hard to imagine the difference between sensor measurements just by checking technical specs. The visual below might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FZ40 and GX7.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The FZ40 with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic GX7 will give you more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older FZ40 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.