Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic ZS20

Let's examine more in depth at the Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic ZS20, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both offered by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the S1 (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is very close and they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S1 was released 15 months prior to the ZS20 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise overview of how the S1 scores against the ZS20 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic S1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

For those who are planning to travel with your camera often, you need to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic S1 features physical dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS20 has specifications of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic ZS20 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have at that time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the S1 against the ZS20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and ZS20 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Often, its difficult to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by viewing technical specs. The picture below will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the S1 and ZS20.

As you have seen, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS20 to provide you with extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged S1 will be behind in sensor tech.