Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax W80

Here is a complete review of the Panasonic GH1 and Pentax W80, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the GH1 (12MP) and the W80 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the GH1 (Four Thirds) and W80 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizes.

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The GH1 was announced around the same time to the W80 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax W80 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a full comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the GH1 scores versus the W80 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 and Pentax Optio W80. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GH1 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GH1 enjoys outside measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") and a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Pentax W80 has proportions of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GH1 and Pentax W80 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the GH1 compared to the W80.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GH1 and W80 is 81 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it can be hard to picture the gap in sensor sizing merely by going through technical specs. The photograph underneath may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GH1 and W80.

As you can tell, both of those cameras come with the identical megapixel count but different sensor sizing. The GH1 comes with the larger sensor which will make getting bokeh easier.