Panasonic GF1 vs Pentax S1

Let's look more closely at the Panasonic GF1 and Pentax S1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the S1 (14MP) is fairly well matched but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and S1 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The GF1 was introduced 16 months earlier than the S1 making them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax S1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick summation of how the GF1 scores versus the S1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Pentax Optio S1. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Pentax S1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF1 features outside measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Pentax S1 has sizing of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF1 and Pentax S1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at that moment. The following is a front view size comparison of the GF1 compared to the S1.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the GF1 and S1 is 85 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by checking a spec sheet. The graphic here might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the GF1 and S1.

As you can see, both of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GF1 having a larger sensor will make getting shallower DOF less difficult and the Pentax S1 will resolve greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.