Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic GF1

Lets look closer at the Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic GF1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both built by Panasonic. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the FZ80 (18MP) and GF1 (12MP) and the FZ80 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FZ80 was released 7 years later than the GF1 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the FZ80 scores against the GF1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ80 features outside dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") with a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) while the Panasonic GF1 has proportions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic GF1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose at that moment. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the FZ80 versus the GF1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the FZ80 and GF1 is 63 and 85 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to envision the difference between sensor measurements merely by checking technical specs. The visual below will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ80 and GF1.

As you have seen, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The FZ80 due to its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic FZ80 will give you greater detail as a result of its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The newer FZ80 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.