Panasonic G2 vs Pentax S1

Following is a detailed overview of the Panasonic G2 versus Pentax S1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the G2 (12MP) and the S1 (14MP) is fairly similar but the G2 (Four Thirds) and S1 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor sizing.

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The G2 was introduced 7 months earlier than the S1 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic G2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax S1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a thorough comparison, below is a short view of how the G2 scores vs the S1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 and Pentax Optio S1. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic G2 Gallery and Pentax S1 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera often, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic G2 features outer dimensions of 124mm x 84mm x 74mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 2.9") along with a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Pentax S1 has specifications of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic G2 versus Pentax S1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the G2 compared to the S1.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the G2 and S1 is 72 and 93 respectively.

Generally, its tough to picture the gap between sensor sizes simply by reviewing specs. The image below may provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the G2 and S1.

All in all, the two cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The G2 with its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field simpler and the Pentax S1 will offer you extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged G2 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.