The G1 from 2008 was the world's first Micro Four Thirds camera and launched the entire format. It used a 12.1MP Live MOS sensor, a fully articulated screen, and a 1.44MP EVF in a 385g body. It had no IBIS, no 4K, no Wi-Fi, and no video recording to speak of. Its historical significance is real, but as a shooting tool it has been surpassed in every measurable way. Primarily of interest to format historians and collectors. It has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix G2. At 385g, this is one of the lightest M43 bodies available, 153g below the M43 average of 538g. Step up to the OM System OM-3 if you want more controls at the cost of 29g extra.
Best for: Everyday and casual photography
Cons
- No in-body image stabilisation
- Contrast-detect AF only, slower on unpredictably moving subjects
- Not weather sealed
Specifications
| Body | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Status | discontinued |
| Released | 2008-10 |
| Weight | 385g |
| Dimensions | 124 × 83.6 × 73.6mm |
| Weather sealed | No |
| Screen | Fully articulated |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Sensor | |
| Description | 12.1MP Live MOS |
| Megapixels | 12.1MP |
| Resolution | 4000 × 3000 |
| Viewfinder | |
| EVF | Yes |
| EVF resolution | 1.44MP |
| EVF magnification | 0.7x |
| Stabilisation | |
| IBIS | No |
| Dual IS | No |
| Autofocus | |
| Phase detect | No |
| Subject recognition | No |
| Shooting | |
| Video | |
| 4K | No |
| 4K 60fps | No |
| Log | No |
| Ports & storage | |
| Card slots | 1 |
| Card type | SD UHS-I |
| HDMI | mini |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Mic port | No |
| WiFi | No |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Battery | DMW-BLC12 |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Panasonic Lumix G1 have IBIS?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G1 does not have in-body image stabilisation. You will need a lens with OIS for any stabilisation benefit.
Is the Panasonic Lumix G1 weather sealed?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G1 does not have weather sealing. Take care in rain or dusty conditions.
Does the Panasonic Lumix G1 shoot 4K video?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G1 does not record 4K video.
Does the Panasonic Lumix G1 have phase-detect autofocus?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G1 uses contrast-detect autofocus. It is slower to lock on to moving subjects than phase-detect systems.
What card does the Panasonic Lumix G1 use?
The Panasonic Lumix G1 has 1 card slot and accepts SD UHS-I cards.
How much does the Panasonic Lumix G1 weigh?
The Panasonic Lumix G1 weighs 385g (body only, with battery and card).
Is the Panasonic Lumix G1 still worth buying?
The Panasonic Lumix G1 has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix G2. The newer model improves on AF performance, sensor, and video specs. At a reduced second-hand price the Panasonic Lumix G1 remains a capable body, but the Panasonic Lumix G2 is the better long-term buy if the budget allows.