Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS70

Below, we are reviewing the Panasonic GM1 versus Panasonic ZS70, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are created by Panasonic. The image resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the ZS70 (20MP) is fairly similar but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and ZS70 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was revealed 4 years prior to the ZS70 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS70 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a short overview of how the GM1 matches up vs the ZS70 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS70. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GM1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS70 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GM1 offers physical dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS70 has sizing of 112mm x 67mm x 41mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.6") with a weight of 322 grams (0.71 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GM1 versus Panasonic ZS70 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using at that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the GM1 versus the ZS70.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GM1 and ZS70 is 93 and 87 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to see the gap between sensor sizing only by reading a spec sheet. The graphic here will help give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the GM1 and ZS70.

As you can see, both cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GM1 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic ZS70 will offer you more detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The older GM1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.