Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax RZ10

Here, we will be matching up the Panasonic GH1 versus Pentax RZ10, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GH1 (12MP) and the RZ10 (14MP) is pretty close but the GH1 (Four Thirds) and RZ10 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The GH1 was released 24 months before the RZ10 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 RZ10 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the GH1 scores against the RZ10 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 and Pentax Optio RZ10. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic GH1 Gallery and Pentax RZ10 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera often, you have to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GH1 features outer measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Pentax RZ10 has measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic GH1 versus Pentax RZ10 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use at that moment. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the GH1 compared to the RZ10.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GH1 and RZ10 is 81 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is very tough to envision the gap in sensor sizing just by viewing specs. The graphic below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the GH1 and RZ10.

As you can plainly see, both cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The GH1 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Pentax RZ10 will provide you with extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots way more aggressively. The older GH1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.