Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 vs Lumix DMC G2 Comparison
Panasonic Lumix DMC G1
Panasonic Lumix DMC G2
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Brand | Panasonic | Panasonic | |
Model | Lumix DMC G1 | Lumix DMC G2 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2008 | 2010 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 12, 2008 | March 07, 2010 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 with a score of 44/100 compared to the G1’s 36/100. Both cameras share the same mirrorless camera type and identical dimensions of 124 x 84mm. However, the G2 is 29mm deeper and weighs 68g more than the G1.
The G2’s higher score reflects its better performance, which can be attributed to a more recent release in 2010, compared to the G1’s 2008 launch. Additionally, the G2 has a lower launch price of $599, making it more affordable than the G1 at $790.
The G1’s advantage lies in its lighter weight of 360g, making it more portable than the G2. However, the G2’s improved performance, affordability, and overall value make it the clear winner in this comparison.
Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 vs Lumix DMC G2 Overview and Optics
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 in optics with a score of 44/100, a 6-point lead over the G1’s 38/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 12.1 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, Venus Engine HD II processor, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, and Micro 4/3 lens mount.
The G2’s advantages lie in its slightly higher DXOMARK sensor score of 53 compared to the G1’s score of 52. This one-point difference indicates that the G2’s sensor performs better in terms of image quality. Moreover, the G2 includes image stabilization, a feature absent in the G1. This addition allows the G2 to capture steadier images and reduces the chances of blurry photos due to camera shake.
On the other hand, the G1 has a faster shooting speed of 3 frames per second (fps) compared to the G2’s 2.6 fps. This means that the G1 can capture a slightly higher number of images in a shorter time, which could be useful in specific situations, such as photographing fast-moving subjects.
Considering the optics of both cameras, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 emerges as the better option due to its higher sensor score and the presence of image stabilization. These features contribute to its enhanced image quality and steadier shots. Although the G1 has a marginally faster shooting speed, the G2’s advantages make it the superior choice for capturing high-quality images.
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Optics
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G2
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 12.1 MP | 12.1 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4000 x 3000 px | 4000 x 3000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13 x 17.3 mm | 13 x 17.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Micro Four Thirds | Micro Four Thirds | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 3 fps | 2.6 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Micro 4/3 | Micro 4/3 | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Venus Engine HD II | Venus Engine HD II | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  4:3 | 4:3 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 3,200 | 6,400 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 3200 | 6400 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 60 s | 60 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 4000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 23 | 23 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   |  | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 202,000 dots | 1,440,000 dots |
Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 vs Lumix DMC G2 Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 in video capabilities, with a video score of 47/100 versus G1’s 34/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as Standard HD maximum video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1280 x 720. However, there are key differences that set the G2 apart.
The G2’s main advantage is its higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the G1’s 30fps. This means that the G2 can capture smoother videos with more fluid motion, making it ideal for recording fast-paced action or sports. Additionally, the higher frame rate allows for better slow-motion playback, as more frames can be played back at a slower speed without losing video quality.
The G1 does not have any significant advantages over the G2 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras lack built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a popular feature for capturing the passage of time in a creative way. This means that neither camera has an edge in this aspect.
Given the differences in video performance, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 is the clear winner in this comparison. Its higher video score reflects superior video quality and smoother motion capture, thanks to its 60fps frame rate. While the G1 shares some common specifications with the G2, its lower frame rate of 30fps limits its video performance. Consequently, if video recording is a priority, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 is the better choice between these two cameras.
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Video
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G2
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Standard HD | Standard HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1280 x 720 px | 1280 x 720 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 30 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | Motion JPEG | MOV, AVCHD Lite |
Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 vs Lumix DMC G2 Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 49/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 trails with a score of 36/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, 460,000-dot screen resolution, flip screen, and the absence of GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth.
The G2 outperforms the G1 mainly due to its touchscreen capability. This feature allows users to navigate menus, adjust settings, and select focus points more efficiently, making it a more user-friendly camera. The touchscreen also provides a more modern and intuitive user experience, which is a significant advantage over the G1.
On the other hand, the G1 does not have any particular features that make it better than the G2. The only advantage it has is that it shares some specifications with the G2, such as screen size, screen resolution, flip screen, and the lack of GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth. However, these similarities do not provide an edge over the G2, as they are present in both models.
Considering the differences and similarities, it is clear that the Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 is a superior camera compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1, primarily due to its touchscreen functionality. This feature enhances user experience and efficiency, making the G2 a more appealing choice for photographers. The G1, while sharing some specifications with the G2, does not offer any additional advantages, making it a less desirable option.
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Features
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G2
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | LCD | TFT LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 460,000 dots | 460,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 vs Lumix DMC G2 Storage and Battery
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC G2 both score 21/100 in storage and battery. They share similarities in this category, such as having one memory card slot and not supporting USB charging. Both cameras accept SD and SDHC memory cards, but the G2 also supports SDXC cards, which allows for higher storage capacity.
The G1 outperforms the G2 in battery life, providing 380 shots per charge compared to the G2’s 330 shots. They both use a similar battery type, the DMW-BLB13 for the G1 and the DMW-BLB13PP for the G2.
The advantage of the G2 is its compatibility with SDXC memory cards, offering more storage options for users. However, the G1 has a longer battery life, enabling more shots to be taken before needing to recharge. Despite these differences, their overall scores in storage and battery remain equal. Both cameras have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them depends on the user’s priorities in terms of battery life and storage capacity.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / MMC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | DMW-BLB13 | DMW-BLB13PP | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 380 shots | 330 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Panasonic Lumix DMC G1
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 21.1 bits | 21.2 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 10.3 EVs | 10.3 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 463 | 493 |
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Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G2
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 vs Lumix DMC G2 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC G2:
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User Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G2
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B&H photo video |
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