Panasonic FZ47 vs Panasonic GF1

Below is a detailed overview of the Panasonic FZ47 and Panasonic GF1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FZ47 (12MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is fairly similar but the FZ47 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) have different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FZ47 was introduced 22 months later than the GF1 making them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ47 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summation of how the FZ47 matches up against the GF1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ47 Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ47 comes with physical dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") having a weight of 498 grams (1.10 lbs) and the Panasonic GF1 has dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

See the Panasonic FZ47 and Panasonic GF1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the FZ47 and the GF1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FZ47 and GF1 is 68 and 85 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to picture the difference between sensor measurements just by reading technical specs. The graphic underneath will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ47 and GF1.

As you can tell, each of these cameras provide the same megapixel count but different sensor measurements. The FZ47 has the tinier sensor which should make obtaining bokeh more difficult. The more modern FZ47 provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.