Panasonic G1 vs Panasonic SZ5

Lets take a closer look at the Panasonic G1 vs Panasonic SZ5, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are built by Panasonic. The image resolution of the G1 (12MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is relatively close but the G1 (Four Thirds) and SZ5 (1/2.3") provide different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The G1 was revealed 4 years prior to the SZ5 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the G1 grades versus the SZ5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The full galleries are available at Panasonic G1 Gallery & Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera regularly, you have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic G1 offers outside measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") having a weight of 360 grams (0.79 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ5 has specifications of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

See the Panasonic G1 vs Panasonic SZ5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at that moment. The following is a front view scale comparison of the G1 compared to the SZ5.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the G1 and SZ5 is 82 and 95 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizes just by looking through technical specs. The image below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the G1 and SZ5.

As you have seen, both the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The G1 with its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic SZ5 will render greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged G1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.