Panasonic GF2 vs Panasonic SZ1

Let's take a deeper look at the Panasonic GF2 versus Panasonic SZ1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are created by Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the GF2 (12MP) and SZ1 (16MP) and the GF2 (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") have different sensor measurements.

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The GF2 was announced 10 months earlier than the SZ1 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before going into a detailed comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the GF2 matches up vs the SZ1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GF2 Gallery and Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera, you'll have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF2 offers physical measurements of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ1 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic GF2 versus Panasonic SZ1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that moment. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the GF2 against the SZ1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GF2 and SZ1 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to visualize the contrast between sensor measurements only by reading specs. The photograph here may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the GF2 and SZ1.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GF2 using its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field simpler and the Panasonic SZ1 will offer you greater detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older GF2 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.