Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic S2

Let's look a bit more closely at the Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic S2, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both created by Panasonic. The resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the S2 (14MP) is pretty similar but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and S2 (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizes.

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The GF1 was manufactured 3 years before the S2 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S2 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a complete comparison, below is a short overview of how the GF1 matches up versus the S2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Panasonic S2 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF1 enjoys 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 S2 has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic S2 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the GF1 compared to the S2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the GF1 and S2 is 85 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizing merely by going over specs. The graphic below may offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF1 and S2.

All in all, both of those cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The GF1 due to its bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic S2 will offer you extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.