Panasonic GF1 vs Pentax RZ10

Below is a thorough overview of the Panasonic GF1 versus Pentax RZ10, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the RZ10 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and RZ10 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor dimensions.

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The GF1 was revealed 21 months before the RZ10 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RZ10 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a full comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the GF1 grades vs the RZ10 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Pentax Optio RZ10. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Pentax RZ10 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF1 provides exterior measurements 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 Pentax RZ10 has sizing of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic GF1 versus Pentax RZ10 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at the time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the GF1 versus the RZ10.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the GF1 and RZ10 is 85 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to visualise the difference between sensor measurements simply by reading through specifications. The graphic underneath will provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the GF1 and RZ10.

Plainly, both of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The GF1 having a bigger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Pentax RZ10 will give more detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.