Panasonic GH1 vs Panasonic ZS15

Here is a thorough review of the Panasonic GH1 versus Panasonic ZS15, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are offered by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GH1 (12MP) and the ZS15 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the GH1 (Four Thirds) and ZS15 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The GH1 was brought out 4 years before the ZS15 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a brief summation of how the GH1 scores versus the ZS15 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GH1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic GH1 offers 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 ZS15 has sizing of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GH1 versus Panasonic ZS15 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using at that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the GH1 against the ZS15.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GH1 and ZS15 is 81 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing purely by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph below might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the GH1 and ZS15.

Clearly, the two cameras have the same megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizing. The GH1 features the bigger sensor which should make obtaining shallower DOF less difficult. The older GH1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.