Panasonic GF2 vs Panasonic ZS20

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Panasonic GF2 and Panasonic ZS20, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are designed by Panasonic. The image resolution of the GF2 (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is very comparable but the GF2 (Four Thirds) and ZS20 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GF2 was announced 14 months earlier than the ZS20 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a full comparison, below is a brief overview of how the GF2 grades vs the ZS20 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF2 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF2 has got outside dimensions of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") and a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS20 has dimensions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GF2 and Panasonic ZS20 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the GF2 vs the ZS20.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the GF2 and ZS20 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to see the difference in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The visual below might offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF2 and ZS20.

As you can see, each of these cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GF2 using its larger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic ZS20 will show extra detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The older GF2 will be behind in sensor technology.