Panasonic ZR1 vs Panasonic ZS50

Here, we are comparing the Panasonic ZR1 and Panasonic ZS50, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are built by Panasonic. The image resolution of the ZR1 (12MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is very similar and both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZR1 was launched 6 years before the ZS50 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a short summation of how the ZR1 matches up vs the ZS50 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera, you will have to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZR1 provides exterior measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS50 has measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZR1 and Panasonic ZS50 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are using at the time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the ZR1 against the ZS50.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the ZR1 and ZS50 is 94 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to picture the gap between sensor measurements simply by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic here might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the ZR1 and ZS50.

Clearly, the 2 cameras come with the identical sensor size and the exact same megapixels and you can expect similar quality of photographs though you would want to take the age of the products into consideration. The older ZR1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.