Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic ZS8

Here, we will be comparing the Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic ZS8, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are produced by Panasonic. The resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and ZS8 (1/2.3") have different sensor dimensions.

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The GF1 was announced 21 months earlier than the ZS8 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a thorough comparison, here is a brief summation of how the GF1 matches up versus the ZS8 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GF1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF1 enjoys exterior measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS8 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic ZS8 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you choose at that moment. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the GF1 compared to the ZS8.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF1 and ZS8 is 85 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to visualize the difference between sensor sizing simply by reading through specifications. The graphic underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the GF1 and ZS8.

To sum up, both the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GF1 using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic ZS8 will resolve extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.