Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS30

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS30, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are offered by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the ZS30 (18MP) is fairly similar but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and ZS30 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was introduced 12 months after the ZS30 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera.

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the GM1 scores against the ZS30 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GM1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GM1 features physical measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS30 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

See the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS30 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing during that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the GM1 compared to the ZS30.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GM1 and ZS30 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizes purely by reviewing specifications. The pic underneath should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the GM1 and ZS30.

To sum up, the two cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The GM1 with its larger sensor will make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic ZS30 will offer extra detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos much more aggressively. The fresher GM1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.