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Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm Review | 108 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£95
Sensor size: four thirds
Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds
Main camera pixel size: 4.33 µm
Weight: 440 g
Battery life (CIPA): 330 shots

Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.4

Poor

4.1

Poor

7.2

Very good

4.6
Professional photography
Score components:
25.0%
8.2
Sensor size
20.0%
4.7
Main camera megapixels
20.0%
1.0
Dual card slots
15.0%
1.9
N. of focus points
10.0%
10
RAW photo capture
10.0%
1.0
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
4.2
Travel
Score components:
35.0%
7.0
Weight
30.0%
4.6
Battery life (CIPA)
20.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
15.0%
1.0
GPS
7.4
Beginners
Score components:
30.0%
10
Price
20.0%
7.0
Weight
20.0%
10
AF tracking
20.0%
4.6
Battery life (CIPA)
10.0%
1.0
Touchscreen
6.2
Landscape photography
Score components:
30.0%
4.7
Main camera megapixels
25.0%
8.2
Sensor size
20.0%
8.2
Main camera pixel size
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
10
RAW photo capture
5.6
Street photography
Score components:
30.0%
7.0
Weight
25.0%
7.9
Thickness
20.0%
6.3
AF low-light sensitivity
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
1.0
Eye detection AF (human)
5.5
Portraits
Score components:
30.0%
8.2
Sensor size
25.0%
8.2
Main camera pixel size
20.0%
1.0
Eye detection AF (human)
15.0%
4.7
Main camera megapixels
10.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
4.1
Hiking
Score components:
30.0%
7.0
Weight
25.0%
4.6
Battery life (CIPA)
20.0%
2.8
Min operating temperature
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
1.0
GPS

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Verdict

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is the world's first Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera, featuring a 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor and a 3.0-inch fully articulated 460k-dot LCD screen. Paired with the Lumix G Vario 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH Mega O.I.S. kit lens (offering a 28-90mm equivalent focal range), the system provides built-in optical image stabilisation and highly accurate contrast-detect autofocus. Its main pros include a compact and lightweight body, excellent corner-to-corner lens sharpness, a durable metal lens mount, and a highly detailed 1.44-million-dot electronic viewfinder for the time. However, its main cons are the total lack of a movie recording mode, noticeable noise at higher ISO settings above 800, and a contrast-detect AF system that struggles with tracking fast-moving subjects.

Technical Specifications of Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm

Overall score

4.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Sensor & Image

4.8

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Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

Base ISO

What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.

When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

Max ISO

What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

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Photo Features

3.3

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Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.

When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Micro Four Thirds

Built-in focus motor

What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.

When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

N. of focus points

What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.

When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.

When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

AF tracking

What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.

When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Video & Audio

2.2

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Max video resolution

What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.

When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

N/A

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

N/A

Video bit depth

What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.

When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

N/A

Video chroma subsampling

What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.

When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

N/A

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Display & Design

6.4

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Type

What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.

When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

mirrorless

Weight

What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.

When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

Width

What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.

When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.

When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

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Battery & Power

5.3

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Battery life (CIPA)

What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.

When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

Removable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.

When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

USB Power Delivery (PD)

What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.

When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity & Storage

2.6

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.

When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.

When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.

When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

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Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm vs the average camera

Why is Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm better than the average camera?

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Better viewfinder type
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.
Importance: MEDIUM
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).electronic vs none
Fully articulated screen
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
What it is: A fully articulating display that can swing outward and rotate for flexible framing angles.
When it matters: When you shoot from awkward angles, vlog, or need to see the screen while standing in front of the camera.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
Sensor cleaning system
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
Supersonic Wave Filter.
What it is: A built-in mechanism designed to remove or reduce dust particles from the image sensor surface.
When it matters: When you change lenses often and want to reduce the chance of dust spots appearing on your images.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
0.99 µm larger main-camera pixels
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 3.5 µm
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.4.33 µm vs 3.34 µm
210 s longer maximum exposure
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (240 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
What it is: The longest exposure time the camera can set, useful for night photography and intentional motion blur.
When it matters: When you shoot night scenes, light trails, or creative long-exposure images without external accessories.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (240 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.240 vs 30
3.05x cheaper
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm is cheaper than the average camera (£95 vs £290).
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm is cheaper than the average camera (£95 vs £290).£95 vs £290
130 mAh larger battery capacity
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,250 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 1,500 mAh
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,250 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.1250 mAh vs 1120 mAh
1 more customizable buttons
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has more customizable buttons than the average camera (1 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
What it is: The number of physical buttons the user can assign to custom functions or shortcuts.
When it matters: When quick access to your preferred settings matters and you want a camera that can be tailored to your workflow.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has more customizable buttons than the average camera (1 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.1 vs 0
Better viewfinder type
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
Fully articulated screen
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
1 more customizable buttons
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has more customizable buttons than the average camera (1 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
Sensor cleaning system
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
0.99 µm larger main-camera pixels
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
210 s longer maximum exposure
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (240 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
130 mAh larger battery capacity
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a higher battery capacity than the average camera (1,250 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.

Display & Design

Battery & Power

Why is Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm worse than the average camera?

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920000 dots lower EVF resolution
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower EVF resolution than the average camera (1,440,000 dots vs 2,360,000 dots). The average camera has an EVF resolution of 2,360,000 dots.
10.3% lower magnification
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.7x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
11.4% heavier
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm is heavier than the average camera (440 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
10.1 mm taller body
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm is taller than the average camera (84 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
4.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
Lacks HDR mode
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
Lower RAW bit depth
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
Smaller sensor
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).
Lower DxOMark landscape score
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (10.3 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
20 points lower DxOMark sensor score
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (53 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
Lower DxOMark portrait score
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (21.1 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
379 points lower DxOMark Sports score
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (463 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
5 older
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm is older than the average camera (2008 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
3,200 lower max ISO
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
Worse low-light autofocus
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
2.7 fps slower mechanical burst
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
1 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
50,000 fewer shutter cycles
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
unofficial estimate
2 fewer microphones
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
No continuous video AF
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
no video recording
Older HDMI version
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
reported as 1.3b
Worse low-light autofocus
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.
Importance: MEDIUM
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.0 vs -4
4.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 20 MP
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP
2 fewer microphones
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 2 microphones
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.0 vs 2
Lacks HDR mode
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
No continuous video AF
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
no video recording
What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.
Importance: LOW
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
Lower RAW bit depth
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 14-bit
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
2.7 fps slower mechanical burst
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 10 fps
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.3 fps vs 5.7 fps
Smaller sensor
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: Full frame or larger
Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).four thirds vs APS-C

Display & Design

Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm?

Compact and lightweight mirrorless design compared to traditional DSLRs
Excellent kit lens (14-45mm) with high sharpness and optical image stabilization (OIS)
Fully articulated 3.0-inch LCD screen useful for shooting at odd angles
High-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage
Fast and accurate contrast-detect autofocus for stationary subjects
Intelligent Auto (iA) mode is highly effective for beginners
Solid ergonomics with a comfortable, rubberized grip

What customers dislike about Panasonic LUMIX DMC G1 LUMIX G Vario 14 45mm?

Total absence of video/movie recording capabilities
Poor high ISO performance with significant noise above ISO 800
Slow and unreliable continuous/tracking autofocus for moving subjects
Electronic viewfinder suffers from noticeable RGB 'tearing' when moving quickly
Battery life is shorter than contemporary DSLRs (approx. 330-350 shots)
Limited native lens selection at the time of its initial release
Command dial can be easily clicked or adjusted by accident

Expert reviews

dpreview.com

19/01/2009

Panasonic Lumix G1 Review: Digital Photography Review

The DPReview evaluation hails the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 as a revolutionary Micro Four Thirds debut, praising its compact design, excellent build quality, and impressive contrast-detect autofocus performance. Key strengths include a highly detailed, large electronic viewfinder (EVF), a versatile tilting screen, and superior handling with intuitive, responsive controls. Conversely,...Read more

cameralabs.com

28/11/2009

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Review - Cameralabs

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is the pioneering model for the Micro Four Thirds standard, a mirrorless system designed to provide high sensor quality in a more portable, quieter body. By removing the traditional mirror and optical viewfinder, the G1 achieves a compact size of 124x84x45mm, making it comfortably smaller than contemporary DSLRs like the Olympus E-420. The camera utilizes...Read more

trustedreviews.com

16/01/2009

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Review - Trusted Reviews

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 highlights the camera as a groundbreaking, compact mirrorless system featuring a 12.1-megapixel Four-Thirds sensor and impressive autofocus performance. Key pros include an exceptionally fast contrast-detection autofocus system with 0.9-second shot-to-shot times in JPEG mode, combined with high-quality, sharp image output...Read more

cnet.com

14/11/2008

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 review - CNET

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is a 12-megapixel Micro Four Thirds camera designed to bridge the gap between compact point-and-shoots and traditional dSLRs by offering interchangeable lenses in a more scaled-down form factor. On the positive side, the camera delivers fast overall performance, boasting a swift 0.8-second startup time and excellent photo quality that easily rivals or...Read more

photoreview.com.au

13/11/2008

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 - Photo Review

Photo Review Australia identifies the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 as a pioneering, compact mirrorless camera featuring a lightweight design with a secure, rubberized handgrip, an ergonomic control dial, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder. Pros highlighted include its innovative Micro Four Thirds system, portability relative to DSLRs, and user-friendly controls. Conversely, the...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

20/01/2011

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 - Review 2011 - PCMag UK

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is the pioneering camera built around the Micro Four Thirds standard, designed to offer SLR-quality images in a more compact form factor by removing the traditional internal mirror box. While the 12.1-megapixel camera delivers solid image quality at lower sensitivities (ISO 100 to 800) and features quick startup and recycle times, its overall performance...Read more

expertreviews.co.uk

30/01/2009

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 review - Expert Reviews

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is a groundbreaking camera that blends compact body design with SLR-quality performance, utilizing the innovative Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lens system. Its core strengths lie in its exceptionally fast autofocus, quick startup times, and accurate automatic exposures, which are enhanced by highly effective face detection. The camera also stands out...Read more

technomadia.com

20/05/2010

Camera Review: Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 | Technomadia (ephotozine.com) | 12 September 2008 | Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Mirrorless Camera Review Do you need...

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 review highlights the camera as a highly versatile and pioneering option for photographers seeking DSLR capabilities without the associated bulk. Built around the mirrorless Micro Four Thirds standard, the camera provides the advantage of interchangeable lenses and a large sensor while maintaining a compact, lightweight body that feels stable in the hand....Read more

whatdigitalcamera.com

06/04/2010

Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical Mega OISGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. | What Digital Camera

The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 lens is lauded as a high-quality standard kit lens for Micro Four Thirds, offering exceptionally sharp image quality, a robust build with a metal mount, and reliable MEGA O.I.S. stabilization. It features quick, near-silent autofocus and superior build quality compared to later, cheaper plastic-mount alternatives. However, the lens is...Read more

photozone.de

No Date

Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH OIS | Photozone (Optical Limits) 💡 Key Takeaway: The 14-45mm lens is widely considered the superior ki...

The OpticalLimits (formerly PhotoZone) review concludes that the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH OIS is a highly capable kit lens when utilizing the Micro Four Thirds system's automatic software corrections. Objectively, the lens boasts very fine build quality featuring tight construction tolerances, smooth rubberized control rings, a non-rotating front element, and a...Read more

digitalkamera.de

11/12/2008

Review: Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1

The digitalkamera.de review highlights the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 as a revolutionary, compact Micro Four Thirds camera featuring a highly functional, fully articulated 3-inch LCD and an innovative electronic viewfinder (EVF) that provides real-time exposure feedback. Key advantages include its significantly lighter weight compared to entry-level DSLRs, alongside a fast,...Read more

chip.de

18/11/2008

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Review

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 marks the debut of the Micro Four Thirds standard, merging a large 12-megapixel Live-MOS sensor with compact camera technology by removing the traditional mirror box and prism. This innovation results in a significantly handier and lighter body—roughly 200 grams lighter than many DSLRs—and more compact interchangeable lenses, such as the 14-45mm kit lens...Read more

dkamera.de

14/12/2008

Review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1

The dkamera.de review highlights the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 as a groundbreaking, compact Micro Four Thirds camera, featuring a 12.0-megapixel sensor, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, and a versatile, fully articulated 3.0-inch LCD screen. Its primary advantages include significantly reduced size and weight compared to DSLRs, enabling a highly portable, innovative shooting...Read more

digicam-beratung.de

20/01/2009

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Review - Digital Camera Buying Guide

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 introduces the Micro Four Thirds system, removing the traditional DSLR mirror mechanism to deliver an exceptionally compact and lightweight camera body without sacrificing sensor size. It features an impressive, highly responsive 1.4-megapixel electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a rotating 3-inch LCD screen, both of which provide a live exposure and white...Read more

computerbild.de

04/12/2008

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 - Digital Camera

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 review by Computer Bild highlights this camera as an innovative bridge between digital SLRs (DSLRs) and compact models. By utilizing the new mirrorless Micro Four Thirds standard, Panasonic engineered a highly portable body with drastically downsized interchangeable lenses without compromising on sensor size. The pros emphasized in the review include its...Read more

connect-living.de

13/11/2008

Panasonic Lumix G1 Review: A New Approach

The Panasonic Lumix G1 marks a historic milestone as the first Micro Four Thirds camera, presenting a mirrorless alternative designed to bridge the gap for users upgrading from compact digital cameras. Built around a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor, its innovative mirror-free construction halves the lens flange focal distance to approximately 20 mm, allowing for a remarkably compact body...Read more

netzwelt.de

01/12/2008

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Review

The Netzwelt review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 highlights its innovative design as a mirrorless pioneer using the Micro Four Thirds System standard. By eliminating the internal reflex mirror space, the camera achieves a remarkably slim and lightweight body that makes both the camera housing and its interchangeable lenses significantly smaller. Performance-wise, a standout feature...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

11/11/2008

Panasonic Lumix G1 Review

The Les Numériques review of the Panasonic Lumix G1 highlights the device as a highly innovative, original concept that marks the beginning of the Micro Four Thirds era. The reviewer strongly praises its high-level, fully articulated 3-inch screen and its advanced LCoS electronic viewfinder, noting that the viewfinder provides a stunningly fine resolution that makes manual focusing...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

12/09/2008

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1: Not a DSLR, but...

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is introduced as the very first camera based on the Micro Four Thirds (µ4/3) standard, positioning itself as an interchangeable-lens bridge camera rather than a traditional DSLR. By removing the internal mirror mechanism, this system significantly reduces camera body thickness and allows for much lighter, more compact wide-angle lenses compared to standard...Read more

camerarace.com

19/01/2009

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 - Review and Specifications

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is recognized as a pioneering, highly portable mirrorless camera, weighing only 360 grams with a 124 x 84 x 45 mm body. Key pros highlighted include its comfortable handling, convenient physical controls, and a versatile, articulated LCD screen. However, the camera shows its age with significant technical limitations, achieving a low overall score of 44....Read more

camerarace.com

01/01/2021

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 - Review and technical specifications", "Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 - Review and specs

The CameraRace review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 highlights the pioneering mirrorless camera's excellent ergonomics, small, lightweight design, and fully articulated screen, scoring it 44/100. Key strengths include its ease of use in the field and versatile LCD, making it highly portable, yet the overall technical score ranks it below the contemporary category average. Camerarace...Read more

tweakers.net

27/07/2009

Panasonic Lumix G1 Review", "Panasonic Lumix G1 - Review - Tweakers

Review Overview The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is the pioneer of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera system, designed by Panasonic and Olympus to create a significantly smaller interchangeable-lens camera by completely removing the traditional dslr mirror box. Encased in a sturdy, velvet-touch plastic body, it delivers a comfortable grip and a highly compact layout that makes it easy to...Read more

focus-review.com

14/12/2024

Digital Vintage: Panasonic Lumix G1 - Focus Review", "Digital Nostalgia: Panasonic Lumix G1 - In-Depth Review", "Going Retro: Panasonic Lumix G1 - Foc...

Panasonic Lumix G1 The Panasonic Lumix G1, originally released in 2008 as the world's very first mirrorless interchangeable lens camera (MILC), marks a revolutionary shift that established the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system. In this retro practical test, the reviewer pairs the highly compact and lightweight body with 14mm and 20mm prime lenses to shoot exclusively in the...Read more

focusmagazine.nl

07/07/2025

Digital Oldies #2: Panasonic G1: The First Mirrorless Camera

summary of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 review: Panasonic G1 Review Summary The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1, released in 2008, holds a historic position as the world's very first mirrorless interchangeable lens camera (MILC) and launched the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system. By removing the traditional mirror box and optical viewfinder found in DSLRs, Panasonic created an incredibly...Read more

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