Panasonic GF2 vs Panasonic ZR1

Here, we are looking at the Panasonic GF2 and Panasonic ZR1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are produced by Panasonic. The resolution of the GF2 (12MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the GF2 (Four Thirds) and ZR1 (1/2.3") boast different sensor measurements.

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The GF2 was revealed 20 months after the ZR1 making them a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before getting right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick view of how the GF2 grades against the ZR1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF2 Gallery & Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF2 comes with outside dimensions of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR1 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GF2 and Panasonic ZR1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are using at the time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the GF2 compared to the ZR1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GF2 and ZR1 is 88 and 94 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to visualize the gap between sensor sizes just by checking specs. The pic underneath will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the GF2 and ZR1.

All in all, each of the cameras feature the identical megapixel count but different sensor sizes. The GF2 contains the larger sensor which should make getting shallower DOF simpler. The fresher GF2 provides an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.