Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic LZ20

Its time to take a deeper look at the Panasonic GF1 versus Panasonic LZ20, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are produced by Panasonic. There is a large difference between the resolutions of the GF1 (12MP) and LZ20 (16MP) and the GF1 (Four Thirds) and LZ20 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GF1 was revealed 3 years earlier than the LZ20 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go through a in-depth comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the GF1 scores against the LZ20 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GF1 features external dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Panasonic LZ20 has proportions of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GF1 versus Panasonic LZ20 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Below is the front view scale comparison of the GF1 against the LZ20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the GF1 and LZ20 is 85 and 71 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to picture the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reading through specifications. The graphic below should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the GF1 and LZ20.

Plainly, the 2 cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The GF1 with its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF simpler and the Panasonic LZ20 will give you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots much more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.