Panasonic GH1 vs Panasonic SZ1

Here is a in-depth review of the Panasonic GH1 vs Panasonic SZ1, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both sold by Panasonic. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the GH1 (12MP) and SZ1 (16MP) and the GH1 (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizing.

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The GH1 was announced 3 years prior to the SZ1 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short summation of how the GH1 grades vs the SZ1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GH1 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GH1 enjoys external dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and 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).

See the Panasonic GH1 vs Panasonic SZ1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you select at that moment. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the GH1 versus the SZ1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the GH1 and SZ1 is 81 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to see the difference between sensor sizing simply by reading a spec sheet. The graphic here will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the GH1 and SZ1.

Clearly, the two cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GH1 with its bigger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic SZ1 will deliver extra detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older GH1 is going to be behind in sensor technology.