Panasonic GF2 vs Panasonic ZS1

In this article, we are comparing the Panasonic GF2 vs Panasonic ZS1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both created by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GF2 (12MP) and the ZS1 (10MP) is fairly close but the GF2 (Four Thirds) and ZS1 (1/2.5") feature totally different sensor measurements.

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The GF2 was introduced 22 months after the ZS1 making the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple summary of how the GF2 grades against the ZS1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF2 Gallery and Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera, you're going to have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF2 features exterior measurements of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") having a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS1 has sizing of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GF2 vs Panasonic ZS1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the GF2 vs the ZS1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GF2 and ZS1 is 88 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to envision the difference in sensor sizes merely by looking through a spec sheet. The picture below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the GF2 and ZS1.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The GF2 using its larger sensor will make getting shallow DOF simpler and the Panasonic GF2 will result in more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The fresher GF2 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.