Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS20

On this page, we are looking at the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS20, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are offered by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is fairly comparable but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and ZS20 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was revealed 21 months after the ZS20 making them a generation away from one another. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a brief summation of how the GM1 grades against the ZS20 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera, you need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GM1 offers external dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") having a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS20 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the GM1 compared to the ZS20.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GM1 and ZS20 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it can be hard to picture the gap in sensor sizes simply by checking out technical specs. The image here should provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GM1 and ZS20.

As you can tell, the two cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The GM1 with its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic GM1 will produce extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more modern GM1 should have an edge in sensor technology.