Panasonic GF8 vs Panasonic S1

In this article, we are matching up the Panasonic GF8 vs Panasonic S1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are created by Panasonic. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the GF8 (16MP) and S1 (12MP) and the GF8 (Four Thirds) and S1 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The GF8 was revealed 5 years after the S1 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief view of how the GF8 grades vs the S1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GF8 Gallery and Panasonic S1 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GF8 provides outer dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Panasonic S1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

See the Panasonic GF8 vs Panasonic S1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use during that time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the GF8 compared to the S1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the GF8 and S1 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizes merely by viewing technical specs. The picture below will help provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF8 and S1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The GF8 using its larger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field simpler and the Panasonic GF8 will provide you with extra detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The more modern GF8 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.