Panasonic GH2 vs Panasonic ZS20

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic GH2 versus Panasonic ZS20, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both manufactured by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GH2 (16MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is very similar but the GH2 (Four Thirds) and ZS20 (1/2.3") feature different sensor measurements.

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The GH2 was introduced 13 months earlier than the ZS20 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the GH2 scores versus the ZS20 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GH2 Gallery & Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera, you need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic GH2 offers outside dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS20 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GH2 versus Panasonic ZS20 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have during that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the GH2 versus the ZS20.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GH2 and ZS20 is 70 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reading a spec sheet. The photograph below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the GH2 and ZS20.

As you can see, both cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GH2 using its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic GH2 will offer extra detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics far more aggressively. The older GH2 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.