Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 42
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 47
SCORE
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|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Panasonic | Panasonic |
| Model | Lumix DMC GH1 | Lumix DMC GH2 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2009 | 2010 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
03/03/2009 | 21/09/2010 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 124 x 90 x 45 mm | 124 x 90 x 76 mm |
| Camera weight | 385 g | 442 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
12.1 MP050 | 16.05 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
4000 x 3000 | 4608 x 3456 |
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 | 13 x 17.3 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Micro Four Thirds | Micro Four Thirds |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. |
3 fps045 | 3 fps045 |
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 | Venus Engine FHD |
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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 16030200 |
Max ISO ⓘ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. |
32003003280000 | 128003003280000 |
Min 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. |
10030200 | 16030200 |
Max 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. |
32003003280000 | 128003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
6044080 | 6044080 |
Max 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. |
400080032000 | 400080032000 |
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. |
230300 | 230300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘ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 dots | 144000009900000 | 153360009900000 |
| Video | ||
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |
✗ | ✓ |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |
Full HD | Full HD |
Max video format ⓘ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. |
1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
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. |
60 fps | 60 fps |
Timelapse 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. |
AVCHD MP4 (Audio format AAC 2ch) | MOV, AVCHD |
| Features | ||
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |
✓ | ✓ |
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 dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
4600001150001500000 | 4600001150001500000 |
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 ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. |
✗ | ✗ |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |
✗ | ✗ |
| Storage & battery | ||
| Memory card | SD / SDHC | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✗ |
| Battery type | DMW-BLB13 | DMW-BLC12PP |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
320 shots1505000 | 330 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 emerges as the winner with a score of 47/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 scores 42/100. Both cameras share common features, such as being mirrorless and having similar dimensions of 124 x 90mm. However, the GH2 is slightly heavier at 442g compared to the GH1 at 385g.
The GH2 surpasses the GH1 with its higher score and later release year (2010) as opposed to the GH1’s release year of 2009. Additionally, the GH2’s launch price is higher at $1100, reflecting its improved features compared to the GH1’s $880 price tag.
On the other hand, the GH1 has a slight advantage in terms of weight and compactness, with a depth of 45mm as opposed to the GH2’s 76mm. This makes the GH1 more portable and easier to handle.
Taking all these factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 is the superior camera with better specifications and features, although the GH1 does have the advantage of being lighter and more compact.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 wins in optics with a score of 48/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 scores 47/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 3 fps shooting speed, a CMOS sensor, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and image stabilization.
The GH2 has an advantage over the GH1 with its higher megapixel count of 16.05 compared to the GH1’s 12.1 megapixels. This difference allows the GH2 to capture images with greater detail and resolution, making it better for photographers who prioritize image quality. The GH2 also features an upgraded processor, the Venus Engine FHD, improving its overall performance and image processing capabilities.
On the other hand, the GH1 has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, scoring 64 compared to the GH2’s 60. This means that the GH1’s sensor performs better in terms of color depth, dynamic range, and low-light performance. This advantage may be beneficial for photographers who often shoot in challenging lighting conditions or require a wider dynamic range.
Considering these differences, the GH2 is better suited for those who value higher resolution and improved processing capabilities, while the GH1 is more appropriate for those who prioritize sensor performance, particularly in low-light situations and dynamic range.
Taking all these factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 narrowly edges out the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 in terms of optics, making it the better choice for most photographers. However, the GH1’s superior sensor performance should not be overlooked, as it may be a deciding factor for certain photographers.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 have tied in video capabilities, with both cameras scoring 56/100. They share common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution, 1920 x 1080 video dimensions, and 60fps maximum video frame rate. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite the tie in scores, there are differences between the two cameras that may affect a user’s preference. The Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1, although not superior in video capabilities, might have other features that appeal to certain users. However, based on the video specifications provided, there is no clear advantage for the GH1 over the GH2 in terms of video capabilities.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 also shares the same video specifications as the GH1. Although it doesn’t have a higher score or any additional video features, users may find other aspects of the camera more appealing, such as improved sensor technology, ergonomics, or functionality.
Given the equal video scores and similar specifications, both the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 are suitable options for users who prioritize video capabilities. The choice between the two cameras ultimately depends on other factors, such as price, design, and additional features. Users should consider these aspects when making their decision, as the video capabilities of both cameras are evenly matched.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 wins in the features comparison with a score of 49/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 scores 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 capabilities.
The GH2 outperforms the GH1 due to its touchscreen feature, which the GH1 lacks. This touchscreen provides a more intuitive and user-friendly interface for photographers, allowing them to quickly and easily adjust settings, review images, and navigate menus. This feature gives the GH2 an advantage over the GH1, making it a more versatile and convenient option for users.
On the other hand, the GH1 has no significant advantages over the GH2 in terms of features, as they both lack GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. The only notable difference between the two cameras is the presence of a touchscreen in the GH2, which gives it a clear edge in this comparison.
Based on the features comparison, the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 is the better camera due to its touchscreen capability. This feature enhances the user experience and makes the camera more versatile and convenient to use. The GH1, however, falls short in this area, offering no significant advantages over the GH2. Therefore, it is evident that the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2 is the superior choice when considering the features of both cameras.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 and DMC GH2 both have a storage and battery score of 21/100, showing no difference in this aspect. Both cameras have one memory card slot and do not support USB charging. However, there are some differences in their storage and battery capabilities.
The DMC GH2 accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, while the DMC GH1 only accepts SD and SDHC cards. This gives the DMC GH2 an advantage in storage options. Additionally, the DMC GH2 has a slightly longer battery life, offering 330 shots compared to the DMC GH1’s 320 shots. The DMC GH2 uses a DMW-BLC12PP battery type, while the DMC GH1 uses a DMW-BLB13 battery type.
Although the differences are minimal, the DMC GH2 has a slight edge in storage and battery capabilities due to its wider range of accepted memory cards and marginally longer battery life. However, the DMC GH1 still performs adequately in these areas, and the overall score remains the same for both cameras.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH1 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC GH2:
