Panasonic S1 vs Sony HX30V

Lets look more in depth at the Panasonic S1 vs Sony HX30V, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a crucial difference among the sensor resolutions of the S1 (12MP) and HX30V (18MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S1 was manufactured 13 months prior to the HX30V which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise view of how the S1 grades vs the HX30V in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic S1 Gallery and Sony HX30V Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S1 features outside measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Sony HX30V has measurements of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic S1 vs Sony HX30V in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are using at the time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the S1 and the HX30V.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and HX30V is 96 and 90 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizing simply by seeing a spec sheet. The visual below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the S1 and HX30V.

Clearly, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Sony HX30V to show extra detail due to its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots more aggressively. The older S1 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.