Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 vs. Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS70: An Experienced Photographer’s Comparative Review

In the world of compact cameras, Panasonic's Lumix line has long been a compelling option, offering reliable, feature-rich models that cater to various photography styles and expertise levels. Today, I’m taking a deep dive into two distinct entries from Panasonic’s compact segment - the Lumix DMC-S1 from 2011 and the Lumix DMC-ZS70 from 2017. Both bear the compact label but serve very different photographic purposes.

After extensive hands-on use and technical scrutiny, I will unpack their capabilities, from sensor technologies to autofocus systems, image quality nuances, and real-world usability across diverse photography disciplines. Whether you’re a casual enthusiast, a budding pro, or simply scouting for a travel companion, this analysis will help you understand what each camera brings to the table - and where they fall short.

Let’s get started.

A Tale of Two Compacts: Size and Handling Differences

Before diving into features, ergonomics are the first gatekeeper of photographic comfort and performance. Though both cameras fall under Panasonic’s compact category, their design philosophies couldn’t be more distinct.

The Panasonic S1 from 2011 is an ultra-compact “pocket” camera - truly pocket-sized at 99 x 59 x 21 mm and weighing only 117 grams. It’s designed for sheer portability, a discreet shooter meant to fit in your hand or a coat pocket easily. However, that form factor comes at the expense of grip and physical controls, with very limited buttons and no dedicated dials. For extended shooting sessions or rapid operation, the small size becomes a hindrance rather than a help.

Contrast this with the ZS70, which is physically larger at 112 x 67 x 41 mm and weighs 322 grams. The added bulk supports a more substantial grip, more robust control placement, and allows for a longer zoom lens - key for varied shooting situations. While not a full-sized DSLR or mirrorless, the ZS70’s presence feels more camera-like, inviting more confident handling. For the enthusiast wanting a versatile compact, the ZS70’s ergonomics strike a sensible balance between portability and usability.

Design and Control Layout: Intuitive or Clunky?

Peeking above the top plate reveals further differences in user interface and operational philosophy.

The S1’s top is almost barren by modern standards - a simple shutter button and zoom toggle are all you get. The lack of dedicated manual controls or customizable buttons limits creative control in the field, forcing reliance on menus. This approach reflects the camera’s entry-level market position and compact-focus design, but it’s a frustration for photographers who prefer tactile adjustments.

Conversely, the ZS70 offers a richer control layout including a mode dial, a small but functional electronic viewfinder (EVF) eyepiece, autofocus mode selector, and access to shutter and aperture priority modes. Panasonic’s classic Lumix control philosophy shines here - intuitive yet comprehensive. This design empowers users from beginners to hobbyists to take creative charge fairly quickly, without fumbling through deep menus on the 3-inch tilting touchscreen.

Sensors and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Sensor performance is the bedrock of any camera’s imaging capabilities, and here is where the two diverge most sharply.

The Lumix S1 is equipped with a relatively modest 1/2.3” CCD sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm) delivering 12 megapixels. This sensor size and technology were hallmark for compact cameras a decade ago but are now decidedly outdated. The CCD sensor, while historically touted for color fidelity, generally suffers from lower dynamic range and poorer noise control at high ISO settings than modern CMOS counterparts.

The ZS70, in contrast, employs a 20MP 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor (6.17 x 4.55 mm). Though the physical size almost matches the S1’s sensor, the technology difference is significant. Backside illuminated CMOS sensors optimize light gathering efficiency, markedly improving low-light image quality, dynamic range, and color depth compared to older CCD chips.

Practically, this results in the ZS70 producing sharper, cleaner images with finer detail rendition and better noise handling - especially critical for travel, landscape, and indoor photography where lighting is challenging. While the S1’s 12MP output is technically sufficient for casual snapshots, the ZS70 offers an image quality leap that remains relevant even by 2024 standards.

Rear Displays and Viewfinding Experience

The rear LCD and finder experience define how you visually compose and review images and overall usability.

The S1 sports a diminutive 2.7-inch fixed TFT LCD with a low resolution of just 230k dots. There is no touchscreen or tilt mechanism, and because it lacks any form of viewfinder, composing in bright sunlight is problematic. Lack of a touchscreen also means menu navigation relies solely on physical buttons, which are minimal.

The ZS70 takes a decisive win here with a 3-inch fully articulated touchscreen boasting 1,040k dots resolution and touch AF capability. This screen tilts for tricky angles and selfies, enhancing compositional creativity and convenience. Additionally, the ZS70 includes a bright electronic viewfinder (1166k dots, 100% coverage), a game-changer in bright conditions or when stability is paramount. This EVF coupled with a sophisticated interface makes the ZS70 feel far more modern and adaptable to diverse shooting environments.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy in Real-World Use

Autofocus (AF) defines whether you can capture sharp images, especially with moving subjects.

The Panasonic S1 has an extremely basic AF system with only 11 contrast-detection points and no face or eye detection. It lacks continuous AF and tracking, which means moving subjects (kids, pets, sports) quickly lose focus. Slow AF speed and hunting are common in low light or complex scenes. Manual focus isn’t supported either, limiting precision control.

Meanwhile, the ZS70 offers a 49-point contrast AF system with face detection, continuous AF, and tracking features. It even supports touch AF via the rear screen, allowing intuitive focus placement on subjects. The autofocus in the ZS70 is noticeably faster and more reliable, able to track moving subjects effectively at its up to 10 fps continuous shooting rate. For wildlife, sports, or street photography, this results in significantly higher keeper rates and less frustration.

Lens Comparisons: Versatility vs. Pocketable Zoom

Lens construction and zoom range significantly impact what kind of photography each camera can tackle.

• S1: Fixed 28-112 mm (4x zoom) with max aperture f/3.1 to f/5.6
• ZS70: Fixed 24-720 mm (30x superzoom) with max aperture f/3.3 to f/6.4

The S1’s lens offers a modest 4x optical zoom starting at a decent wide-angle field of view, typically suitable for everyday snapshots, portraits, and moderate landscapes. However, the longer focal lengths are limited, making telephoto or wildlife shooting impractical.

The ZS70’s impressive 30x zoom lens transforms it into a true all-in-one travel camera. Starting at ultra-wide 24 mm equivalent, perfect for immersive landscapes and interiors, it pushes to an extreme telephoto reach of 720 mm. This combination can tackle wildlife, sports, and architectural details beyond the scope of most compact cameras. The trade-off is a somewhat slower maximum aperture at telephoto, which means less light-gathering ability compared to prime lenses, but for a compact zoom this is expected. Optical image stabilization helps stabilize long focal lengths.

In summary, the S1’s lens is limited but sufficient if you prefer simplicity and lighter gear; the ZS70’s lens is versatile enough for nearly any scenario short of professional telephoto demands.

Burst Shooting and Speed

Action and sports shooters look to high frame rates without losing AF fidelity.

• S1: No continuous shooting speed specified
• ZS70: Continuous shooting up to 10 fps with AF tracking

The absence of a meaningful burst mode on the S1 restricts it to casual, static shooting. The ZS70, in contrast, suits capturing dynamic moments - whether children at play or wildlife in motion - with a burst speed competitive even alongside entry-level mirrorless cameras from its era.

Video Capabilities: Resolution and Features

Video recording has become a crucial part of modern cameras. Let’s see how these two stack up.

The S1 is limited to 720p (HD) video at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format. No advanced codecs, no 4K, and a dated video interface that lacks microphone input or stabilization modes tailored for smooth video.

By comparison, the ZS70 records 4K UHD video at 30p and Full HD at 60p, supporting both MPEG-4 and AVCHD formats. Thanks to its optical image stabilization and 4K photo mode, it offers great flexibility for hybrid shooting - capturing high-res footage and extracting 8MP stills. The ZS70 has no external mic input, which is a minor drawback for videographers who want professional audio capture but remains sufficient for casual to intermediate video needs.

In sum, the ZS70 is a far superior video tool, comfortably serving vloggers, travel shooters, and casual filmmakers.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

Battery endurance is a practical concern.

The S1 offers about 240 shots per charge, which aligns with its smaller, less power-demanding sensor and screen. Storage includes one SD card slot plus internal memory, a nice alternative but often insufficient for extended shooting sessions or high-resolution data.

The ZS70 ups the ante with 380 shots per charge, reflecting power optimizations despite its larger screen and EVF. It has only one SD card slot but no internal storage, common for advanced compacts.

In terms of connectivity, the S1 lacks any wireless features while the ZS70 includes built-in Wi-Fi, facilitating easy image transmission and remote shooting via Panasonic’s smartphone app - an essential feature in today’s connected photography.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera boasts environmental sealing, dustproofing, or waterproofing. Both are best treated as indoor/dry condition tools or cared for during outdoor use. The ZS70’s beefier build and slightly more substantial frame offer a bit more physical protection, but neither will stand up to harsh conditions without additional gear.

Image Samples and Real-World Shooting Experience

To put theory into practice, I shot a variety of scenes with both cameras under controlled conditions and outdoor shoots.

Panasonic S1 front Panasonic S1 screen back Panasonic ZS70 front

• Portraits: The ZS70’s superior autofocus with face detection locked quickly on subjects, rendering skin tones with pleasing naturalness and good bokeh from the telephoto end. The S1 struggled with soft images and slower AF, without any depth simulation.

• Landscapes: Both performed adequately under bright light, but the ZS70’s higher resolution and wider dynamic range revealed finer textures and better highlight retention.

• Wildlife: The S1’s slow AF and limited zoom forced considerable cropping and missed shots. The ZS70 allowed closer framing and faster focusing on moving birds and small animals.

• Sports & Action: The ZS70’s 10 fps burst with tracking autofocus captured several keeper frames, while the S1 was all but useless here.

• Street & Travel: The S1’s size was great for pocket carry and stealth shooting. However, the ZS70’s improved controls and versatile zoom gave more creative options at the cost of added bulk.

• Macro: The ZS70 offered a 3 cm macro focusing distance with focus stacking support; the S1 had 5 cm minimum but no advanced macro features.

• Low Light/Night: The ZS70 outperformed distinctly thanks to its better ISO performance and image stabilization.

• Video: Only the ZS70 delivered acceptable modern video, making it the clear choice for multimedia creators.

Genre-Specific Performance and Scores

Breaking down the cameras by photographic genres highlights their ideal use cases at a glance:

• Portrait: ZS70 excels due to AF and image quality; S1 is limited.
• Landscape: Both competent; ZS70’s detail and dynamic range give it an edge.
• Wildlife: ZS70 dominant due to zoom and AF.
• Sports: ZS70 only viable option.
• Street: S1 wins for compactness; ZS70 for versatility.
• Macro: ZS70 preferred for features.
• Night: ZS70 better low-light ISO.
• Video: ZS70 far superior.
• Travel: ZS70 offers wider focal range and features despite size.
• Professional: Neither is a professional-level tool, but ZS70’s versatility is preferable.

Overall Performance Ratings

Synthesizing all tests and measurements:

The ZS70 scores solidly in resolution, autofocus, versatility, and video, reflecting its status as a modern superzoom compact.

The S1’s scores are much lower, indicating an outdated, entry-level snapshot camera better suited to casual users requiring ultimate simplicity and pocket convenience.

Technical Takeaways and Practical Recommendations

• Sensor Technology: The ZS70’s BSI-CMOS fundamentally outperforms the S1’s older CCD unit by a wide margin in image quality, noise control, and ISO flexibility.

• Lens & Zoom: If you need super-telephoto reach in a compact, go ZS70. For basic everyday shots within moderate zoom range, S1 is okay.

• Autofocus: Serious users benefit from ZS70’s advanced AF system with tracking and face detection.

• Video: The ZS70 is fit for modern video workflows; the S1 is limited to low-res clips.

• Controls and Usability: ZS70’s touchscreen, EVF, and manual modes support creative photography at many skill levels.

• Portability: S1 is a true pocket camera; the ZS70 is compact but more camera-like in size and weight.

• Price: The S1 sits around $270; the ZS70 around $450. Given the huge feature gap, the higher price is justifiable for users seeking versatility.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 if:

• You want an ultra-compact, pocketable camera for casual snapshots
• Your photography needs are basic, with minimal manual controls
• You prioritize lowest weight and size above image quality or zoom
• Budget is tight, and you don’t mind dated specs and limited features

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS70 if:

• You desire a versatile all-rounder with long zoom range for travel, wildlife, sports, and more
• You shoot video regularly and want 4K capability
• You want responsive autofocus with face detection and tracking
• You’re comfortable with a slightly larger compact camera with rich controls
• You want the best image quality possible in a value-priced small sensor camera

Closing Reflections

While both the Panasonic Lumix S1 and ZS70 fit within the compact camera niche, they serve frankly different photographic missions. The S1 feels like a relic of simpler times - an ultra-light pocket camera for snapshots - whereas the ZS70 is more of a compact expert’s Swiss army knife camera, capable of tackling diverse subjects fluidly.

Given the rapid pace of imaging technology advancement, especially between 2011 and 2017, the ZS70's comprehensive improvements in sensors, autofocus, controls, and video are substantial. For most photography enthusiasts today, I’d steer towards the ZS70 unless absolute pocketability is the only priority.

Both cameras have their stories to tell - they reflect Panasonic’s evolution and the shifting demands of photographers worldwide. I hope this comparative journey has illuminated which tool best aligns with your photographic creativity.

Happy shooting!

All testing conducted under controlled conditions including daylight, low light, and motion scenarios to ensure comprehensive and repeatable results.