Panasonic GM1 vs. Panasonic S1: A Deep Dive into Two Distinct Compact Cameras

In the ever-evolving world of photography, the variety of cameras available can often be dizzying. Today, I’m dissecting two very different, yet both intriguing, Panasonic models: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 (hereafter GM1) and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 (S1). Released several years apart and designed with divergent philosophies, these cameras nonetheless share a common ground as compact tools aimed at portability and user accessibility. But how do they stack up in real-world shooting, especially across diverse photography genres?

Having spent extensive hands-on hours testing each - across cityscapes, wildlife vantage points, and studio portrait setups - I’m laying bare the details on sensor tech, handling, autofocus, and much more. If you’re deciding between these distinct options, or just curious what separates a mirrorless micro four thirds from a small sensor compact, this comparison will clarify their strengths, weaknesses, and who each camera truly serves.

Let’s jump in.

A Tale of Two Bodies: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

First impressions matter, and with cameras, that starts with physical design. Both models champion portability but approach it differently.

The GM1 is a rangefinder-style mirrorless from 2013. Its diminutive frame measures just 99 x 55 x 30 mm and weighs a feather-light 204 grams. The compactness is impressive, especially considering its interchangeable lens system and Micro Four Thirds sensor inside. It feels like a camera that dares you to carry it everywhere - pocketable, almost invisible in your hands.

By contrast, the S1 is a small sensor compact from 2011, with dimensions of 99 x 59 x 21 mm and a lighter heft of 117 grams. Its fixed 28-112mm equivalent zoom lens trades flexibility for simplicity - a “point and shoot” ethos wrapped in a rectangular, uncomplicated shell.

Ergonomically, the GM1's rangefinder styling lends an air of familiarity for street shooters and enthusiasts. Its grip, though minimal, offers enough hold for steady framing without strain. The S1’s boxy shape feels effortless to handle but doesn’t inspire prolonged shooting sessions due to its sparse controls and lack of tactile feedback.

Looking at the control layout from overhead confirms this emphasis on usability:

The GM1 features dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, plus a touchscreen - a rare find in 2013 cameras, letting you move quickly through menus or even tap to focus. Conversely, the S1 provides a more stripped-down experience: no manual exposure modes, no touchscreen, and a basic on/off button. It’s a camera designed for simplicity first, adaptability second.

In practice: I found the GM1 far more nimble for photographers who enjoy manual control or want to explore exposure creatively. The S1, while delightfully easy to operate, quickly feels limiting for any user beyond casual snapshot needs.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Core of the Matter

Here lies the defining gulf between these cameras. The GM1 sports a 16MP Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) CMOS sensor, whereas the S1 holds a much smaller 1/2.3-inch (6.08 x 4.56 mm) CCD sensor with 12MP resolution.

This sensor size difference is massive. The GM1’s sensor surface area (~225 mm²) dwarfs the S1’s tiny chip (~28 mm²) by a factor of 8 roughly. Fundamentally, bigger sensors translate to better image quality: superior dynamic range, depth of field control, and noise handling.

To quantify:

• The GM1’s DxO Mark overall score lands at 66, with impressive color depth (22.3 bits) and dynamic range (~11.7 EV). Its usable ISO tops out nicely at 660 before noise becomes problematic.
• The S1 has never been tested by DxO, but based on the sensor type and size, expect modest performance limitations. A max ISO of 6400 sounds good on paper but image quality degrades quickly in low light.

Real-world impact: Shooting landscapes at dawn, the GM1 revealed a level of detail and tonal gradation that the S1 simply couldn’t match. Shadows held subtle textures, highlights retained information without blowing out easily. The S1’s images required cautious exposure to avoid banding and noise creeping into darker zones.

For portrait hobbyists, the GM1’s 16MP canvas yields detailed, natural skin tones with smoother gradients, whereas the S1’s images look flatter, with less pleasing color rendition. Its smaller sensor and fixed aperture range (f/3.1–f/5.6) offer less subject separation and weaker bokeh, limiting creative depth-of-field effects.

Viewing and Composing: Screen and Viewfinder Realities

Neither camera sports an electronic viewfinder, which leans heavily on display quality for composing shots.

The GM1’s 3-inch fixed TFT LCD with wide viewing angle and 1036k resolution provides sharp, bright previews with responsive touchscreen capability. Touch AF and menu navigation are smooth and modern, helping speed up workflows on the fly.

The S1’s 2.7-inch TFT LCD with only 230k resolution feels like yesterday’s tech by comparison - dull colors and soft clarity hamper critical focusing and image review. No touchscreen adds friction to the shooting experience.

From my testing across bright daylight and shadowy interiors, the GM1 consistently outperformed in viewability and usability, a critical advantage for street photographers or anyone shooting on the go.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Accuracy in Action

Now, autofocus: arguably the soul of a camera’s usability, especially in action or candid scenarios.

The GM1 uses contrast-detection autofocus alone, with 23 focus points and face-detection enabled. This was typical for mirrorless cameras of its era but nonetheless effective. It offers continuous AF, touch AF, selective AF areas, and center weighting modes.

The S1 has a more rudimentary AF system with just 11 points, no face detection, and only contrast detection as well. Crucially, no continuous or tracking AF modes are present - your shots will rely heavily on static subjects and patience.

Burst shooting: The GM1 can shoot 5 frames per second, respectable for an entry-level mirrorless body, facilitating casual wildlife or sports bursts. The S1 doesn’t support continuous shooting modes, essentially limiting it to single-frame capture.

In field tests photographing birds in flight or kids at play, the GM1’s AF speed and tracking were typical but reliable - occasionally hunting in low contrast but locking onto eyes competently. The S1 struggled, frequently missing focus altogether or lagging behind quick action.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Flexibility vs Simplicity

One of the GM1’s biggest assets is its Micro Four Thirds mount, granting access to an extensive collection of lenses - over 100 native options and third-party alternatives covering everything from ultra-wide to super-telephoto.

The S1, by contrast, is a fixed-lens system with a modest 28-112 mm zoom (equivalent to 4x optical). Aperture varies from f/3.1 to f/5.6, limiting low-light flexibility and creative blur.

For macro enthusiasts, the GM1 supports specialized lenses for high magnification, while the S1’s minimum focus distance is 5 cm - decent, but not truly macro.

If versatility and future-proofing your photography gear are priorities, the GM1 clearly leads.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

Battery endurance is vital for travel or extended sessions.

Both cameras employ rechargeable battery packs, with similar longevity: about 230 shots per charge for the GM1 and 240 for the S1. In practice, this is modest but manageable, and I found carrying a spare battery advisable for both.

The GM1 features built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing wireless image transfer and remote control using Panasonic’s app. The S1 lacks any wireless features entirely, which feels antiquated.

Storage-wise, both support SD cards. The GM1 does not have internal storage, whereas the S1 incorporates limited internal memory as backup.

Video Capabilities: What’s in the Bag?

Looking at video - often a secondary but noteworthy feature - the GM1 captures Full HD 1080p video at 60i, 50i, and 24p, utilizing MPEG-4 and AVCHD formats. No 4K, no microphone input - video enthusiasts will find it basic but workable for casual clips.

The S1 offers only 720p HD recording at 30fps in Motion JPEG format, with inferior resolution and compression efficiency.

Neither camera supports in-body image stabilization, though the S1 claims optical stabilization in its lens system.

Shooting Genres Explored: Which Camera Excels Where?

I’ve tested both cameras across a range of common photographic disciplines. Here’s where they shine - and where they falter:

Portrait Photography

The GM1’s larger sensor, sharper lens assortment, and face detection give clear advantages. Skin tones render naturally with pleasing texture, and background bokeh helps isolate subjects.

The S1’s smaller sensor and fixed lens struggles with subject separation and tends toward flat, contrast-limited results.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range is king here. GM1’s 11.7 EV stop DR captures detailed skies and shadows with minimal noise. Plus, Micro Four Thirds lenses with weather-sealing options enhance versatility outdoors.

S1’s image quality is more constrained, and lack of weather resistance makes it less inviting in varying conditions.

Wildlife Photography

Autofocus speed and continuous shooting at 5 fps put GM1 squarely ahead for casual wildlife shooters. Lens interchangeability means you can attack long telephoto ranges.

S1’s fixed zoom and no continuous shooting limit usefulness to slow, static subjects.

Sports Photography

The GM1’s 5 fps burst and face-detection autofocus facilitate amateur-level sports coverage. S1 falls behind completely here.

Street Photography

Both favor small size and quiet shooting, but GM1’s better controls and touchscreen give it an edge for fast, reactive shooting.

Macro Photography

GM1 supports dedicated macro lenses. The S1’s 5 cm minimum focus is respectable but no replacement for a true macro setup.

Night and Astrophotography

Higher ISO performance and wider apertures on the GM1 enable better low-light captures. S1’s noise levels and dynamic range restrict night shooting.

Video

Basic HD video on both. GM1’s formats and frame rates are more flexible.

Travel Photography

GM1 blends compactness with flexibility - able to adapt lenses to any situation. S1’s simplicity is appealing for casual travellers fearing complexity but ultimately less versatile.

Professional Use

GM1’s RAW support, manual controls, and lens ecosystem make it viable for professional backups or specialized use in good light. S1’s limited file types and simple controls preclude professional application.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera is weather-sealed or ruggedized, which is unsurprising given their portable focus and price point. Both feel sturdy enough for regular consumer use but shy away from harsh environments.

Price and Value Analysis

At launch, the GM1 carried a premium (~$750 new), justified by sensor size, lens system, and modern controls.

The S1’s original price (~$268) reflected its simpler fixed-lens, compact design. It appeals as a lightweight travel companion for those prioritizing convenience over creative control or image quality.

Given current used market values (both are legacy models), buyers must weigh if niche compact simplicity (S1) outweighs overall image quality and versatility (GM1).

Summary of Scores and Genre-Specific Performance

The GM1 outperforms the S1 in nearly every technical category - sensor, autofocus, burst rates, ergonomics - yielding better suitability for enthusiasts and prosumers. The S1 remains an easy-to-use, pocket-sized point & shoot that suits casual use.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Which?

Pick the Panasonic GM1 if:

• You want truly compact mirrorless flexibility with interchangeable lenses.
• Image quality, manual control, and autofocus performance matter to you.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or any genre where sensor size and dynamic range influence your results.
• You desire touchscreen operation and wireless connectivity.
• You’re willing to invest effort in learning camera controls and making most of your gear.

Opt for the Panasonic S1 if:

• You need a simple, foolproof point-and-shoot camera for snapshots.
• You prioritize weight savings and absolute simplicity over versatility.
• Low light or manual exposure modes aren’t crucial to your work.
• Your budget is tight and you want a straightforward camera without additional lens purchases.

Closing Reflections

Comparing the Panasonic GM1 and S1 is a glimpse into two design philosophies: one embracing the entry-level mirrorless revolution, the other subscribing to compact simplicity. Despite sharing a brand and portable goals, their vast gap in sensor technology and features makes them less rivals, more companions to different photographic spirits.

If I were packing for a two-week photo trip with a limited budget, I’d always take the GM1 for its control, image quality, and adaptability - especially with my bag of Micro Four Thirds lenses.

But for a city break where I just want “grab & go”, the S1’s no-fuss approach could charm its own niche.

Ultimately, your choice depends on how seriously you want to pursue photography beyond point-and-shoot convenience. Both are capable cameras, but the GM1’s technical and creative advantages make it the more future-proof, empowering photographic tool.

Sample Shots from Both Cameras for Your Consideration

Seen side by side, the difference between these two cameras’ output becomes stark.

Panasonic GM1 front Panasonic GM1 screen back Panasonic S1 front Panasonic S1 screen back

With the above insights, I hope your decision becomes clearer. Whether buying your first interchangeable lens camera or seeking a simple pocketable companion, these dual perspectives on Panasonic’s GM1 and S1 have hopefully illuminated their distinctions and merits in everyday photography.

Happy shooting!