Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax RS1500

Here is a extensive analysis of the Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax RS1500, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GH1 (12MP) and the RS1500 (14MP) is relatively similar but the GH1 (Four Thirds) and RS1500 (1/2.3") have different sensor measurements.

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The GH1 was unveiled 20 months earlier than the RS1500 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RS1500 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a thorough comparison, here is a short summary of how the GH1 matches up vs the RS1500 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 & Pentax Optio RS1500. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GH1 Gallery & Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera frequently, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GH1 has got outside measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Pentax RS1500 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax RS1500 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the GH1 against the RS1500.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GH1 and RS1500 is 81 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, its tough to imagine the gap between sensor sizing just by reviewing specifications. The photograph underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GH1 and RS1500.

Plainly, both the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The GH1 with its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field easier and the Pentax RS1500 will offer extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures way more aggressively. The older GH1 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.