Panasonic LF1 vs Panasonic ZS40

In this article, we will be reviewing the Panasonic LF1 versus Panasonic ZS40, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both offered by Panasonic. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the LF1 (12MP) and ZS40 (18MP) and the LF1 (1/1.7") and ZS40 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor size.

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The LF1 was launched within a month of the ZS40 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the LF1 grades versus the ZS40 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic LF1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LF1 comes with outside measurements of 103mm x 62mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS40 has measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic LF1 versus Panasonic ZS40 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the LF1 compared to the ZS40.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the LF1 and ZS40 is 92 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to see the contrast in sensor measurements just by researching specs. The graphic below might give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the LF1 and ZS40.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The LF1 due to its bigger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic ZS40 will provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs far more aggressively.