Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS7

Below is a complete comparison of the Panasonic GM1 versus Panasonic ZS7, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are produced by Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the GM1 (16MP) and ZS7 (12MP) and the GM1 (Four Thirds) and ZS7 (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was revealed 2 years later than the ZS7 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS7 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple view of how the GM1 matches up versus the ZS7 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS7 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM1 comes with physical dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") with a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS7 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic GM1 versus Panasonic ZS7 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is the front view size comparison of the GM1 compared to the ZS7.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the GM1 and ZS7 is 93 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to picture the gap in sensor measurements only by going through specifications. The visual here will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the GM1 and ZS7.

Plainly, each of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The GM1 using its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic GM1 will produce greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images a little more aggressively. The newer GM1 should have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.