Panasonic GH2 vs Sony a1

On this page, we are reviewing the Panasonic GH2 versus Sony a1, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the other is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the GH2 (16MP) and a1 (50MP) and the GH2 (Four Thirds) and a1 (Full frame) provide different sensor dimensions.

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The GH2 was unveiled 10 years before the a1 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before delving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a short summation of how the GH2 matches up against the a1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 and Sony Alpha a1. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GH2 Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic GH2 enjoys exterior dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") and a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) whilst the Sony a1 has specifications of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

See the Panasonic GH2 versus Sony a1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the GH2 vs the a1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the GH2 and a1 is 70 and 61 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to picture the gap in sensor measurements only by checking out a spec sheet. The graphic here will provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the GH2 and a1.

As you can see, each of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The GH2 with its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Sony a1 will show extra detail having an extra 34MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos more aggressively. The older GH2 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.