Panasonic GX85 vs Panasonic ZS45

Below is a thorough assessment of the Panasonic GX85 and Panasonic ZS45, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both produced by Panasonic. The resolution of the GX85 (16MP) and the ZS45 (16MP) is relatively close but the GX85 (Four Thirds) and ZS45 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The GX85 was launched 16 months later than the ZS45 which makes them a generation apart from one another. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GX85 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise view of how the GX85 scores vs the ZS45 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX85 Gallery & Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera, you need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GX85 has physical measurements of 122mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.7") having a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS45 has measurements of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GX85 and Panasonic ZS45 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at the time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the GX85 and the ZS45.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GX85 and ZS45 is 83 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to see the contrast in sensor measurements just by viewing specs. The photograph here will provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the GX85 and ZS45.

All in all, both of those cameras have the same megapixels albeit not the same sensor measurements. The GX85 comes with the bigger sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF easier. The more recent GX85 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.