Panasonic S1H vs Sony RX10 IV

The Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV are two enthusiast cameras that were revealed to the public, respectively, in May 2019 and September 2017. The S1H is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, while the RX10 IV is a fixed lens compact. The cameras are based on a full frame (S1H) and an one-inch (RX10 IV) sensor. The Panasonic has a resolution of 24 megapixels, whereas the Sony provides 20 MP.

Below is an overview of the main specs of the two cameras as a starting point for the comparison.

Headline Specifications

Panasonic S1H		Sony RX10 IV
Mirrorless system camera		Fixed lens compact camera
Leica L mount lenses		24-600mm f/2.4-4.0
24 MP, Full Frame Sensor		20 MP, 1" Sensor
6K/30p Video		4K/30p Video
ISO 100-51200 (50-204800)		ISO 100-12800 (64-25600)
Electronic viewfinder (5760k dots)		Electronic viewfinder (2359k dots)
3.2" LCD, 2330k dots		3.0" LCD, 1440k dots
Swivel touchscreen		Tilting touchscreen
9 shutter flaps per second		24 shutter flaps per second
In-body stabilization		Lens-based stabilization
Weathersealed body		Weathersealed body
400 shots per battery charge		400 shots per battery charge
151 x 114 x 110 mm, 1052 g		133 x 94 x 145 mm, 1095 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV? Which one should you buy? Read on to find out how these two cameras compare with respect to their body size, their imaging sensors, their shooting features, their input-output connections, and their reception by expert reviewers.

Body comparison

An illustration of the physical size and weight of the Panasonic S1H and the Sony RX10 IV is provided in the side-by-side display below. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three successive views from the front, the top, and the rear are shown. All size dimensions are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

If the front view area (width x height) of the cameras is taken as an aggregate measure of their size, the Sony RX10 IV is notably smaller (27 percent) than the Panasonic S1H. In this context, it is worth noting that both cameras are splash and dust-proof and can, hence, be used in inclement weather conditions or harsh environments.

The above size and weight comparisons are to some extent incomplete and possibly misleading, as the RX10 IV has a lens built in, whereas the S1H is an interchangeable lens camera that requires a separate lens. Attaching the latter will add extra weight and bulk to the setup.

The battery packs of both cameras can be charged via USB, which can be very convenient when travelling.

The table below summarizes the key physical specs of the two cameras alongside a broader set of comparators. If you want to switch the focus of the display and review another camera pair, just select a new right or left comparator from among the camera models in the table. Alternatively, you can also move across to the CAM-parator tool and choose from the broad selection of possible camera comparisons there.

Camera Body Specifications

	Camera Model	Camera Width	Camera Height	Camera Depth	Camera Weight	Battery Life (CIPA)	Weather Sealing (yes/no)	Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Panasonic S1H»	5.9 in	4.5 in	4.3 in	37.1 oz	400	Y	May 2019	3,999			Panasonic S1H
	Sony RX10 IV«	5.2 in	3.7 in	5.7 in	38.6 oz	400	Y	Sep 2017	1,699			Sony RX10 IV
	Leica M-E Typ 240« »	5.5 in	3.1 in	1.7 in	24.0 oz	..	Y	Jun 2019	3,999			Leica M-E Typ 240
	Nikon Z6« »	5.3 in	4.0 in	2.6 in	23.8 oz	310	Y	Aug 2018	1,999			Nikon Z6
	Olympus E-M1X« »	5.7 in	5.8 in	3.0 in	35.2 oz	870	Y	Jan 2019	2,999			Olympus E-M1X
	Panasonic S1« »	5.9 in	4.3 in	3.8 in	35.9 oz	400	Y	Feb 2019	2,499			Panasonic S1
	Panasonic S1R« »	5.9 in	4.3 in	3.8 in	35.8 oz	380	Y	Feb 2019	3,699			Panasonic S1R
	Panasonic G95« »	5.1 in	3.7 in	3.0 in	18.9 oz	290	Y	Apr 2019	999			Panasonic G95
	Pentax K-1 II« »	5.4 in	4.3 in	3.4 in	35.6 oz	670	Y	Feb 2018	1,999			Pentax K-1 II
	Sigma fp« »	4.4 in	2.8 in	1.8 in	14.9 oz	..	Y	Jul 2019	..			Sigma fp
	Sony A7R IV« »	5.1 in	3.8 in	3.1 in	23.5 oz	670	Y	Jul 2019	3,499			Sony A7R IV
	Sony A7 III« »	5.0 in	3.8 in	2.9 in	22.9 oz	610	Y	Feb 2018	1,999			Sony A7 III
	Sony RX100 VI« »	4.0 in	2.3 in	1.7 in	10.6 oz	240	n	Jun 2018	1,199	-		Sony RX100 VI
	Sony RX10 III« »	5.2 in	3.7 in	5.0 in	37.1 oz	420	Y	Mar 2016	1,499			Sony RX10 III
	Sony RX100 V« »	4.0 in	2.3 in	1.6 in	10.5 oz	220	n	Oct 2016	999			Sony RX100 V
	Sony RX10 II« »	5.1 in	3.5 in	4.0 in	28.7 oz	400	Y	Jun 2015	1,299	-		Sony RX10 II
	Sony RX10« »	5.1 in	3.5 in	4.0 in	28.7 oz	420	Y	Oct 2013	1,299	-		Sony RX10
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Note: Measurements and pricing do not include easily detachable parts, such as interchangeable lenses or optional viewfinders.

Any camera decision will obviously take relative prices into account. The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices give an idea on the placement of the camera in the maker’s lineup and the broader market. The RX10 IV was launched at a lower price than the S1H, despite having a lens built in. Normally, street prices remain initially close to the MSRP, but after a couple of months, the first discounts appear. Later in the product cycle and, in particular, when the replacement model is about to appear, further discounting and stock clearance sales often push the camera price considerably down.

Sensor comparison

The size of the imaging sensor is a crucial determinant of image quality. A large sensor will tend to have larger individual pixels that provide better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and richer color-depth than smaller pixel-units in a sensor of the same technological generation. Moreover, a large sensor camera will give the photographer more control over depth-of-field in the image and, thus, the ability to better isolate a subject from the background. On the downside, larger sensors tend to be more expensive and lead to bigger and heavier cameras and lenses.

Of the two cameras under consideration, the Panasonic S1H features a full frame sensor and the Sony RX10 IV an one-inch sensor. The sensor area in the RX10 IV is 86 percent smaller. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have a format factor of, respectively, 1.0 and 2.7. Both cameras have a native aspect ratio (sensor width to sensor height) of 3:2.

With 24MP, the S1H offers a higher resolution than the RX10 IV (20MP), but the S1H nevertheless has larger individual pixels (pixel pitch of 5.94μm versus 2.41μm for the RX10 IV) due to its larger sensor. Moreover, the S1H is a somewhat more recent model (by 1 year and 8 months) than the RX10 IV, and its sensor might have benefitted from technological advances during this time that further enhance the light gathering capacity of its pixels.

The resolution advantage of the Panasonic S1H implies greater flexibility for cropping images or the possibility to print larger pictures. The maximum print size of the S1H for good quality output (200 dots per inch) amounts to 30 x 20 inch or 76.2 x 50.8 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi) 24 x 16 inch or 61 x 40.6 cm, and for excellent quality (300 dpi) 20 x 13.3 inch or 50.8 x 33.9 cm. The corresponding values for the Sony RX10 IV are 27.4 x 18.2 inch or 69.5 x 46.3 cm for good quality, 21.9 x 14.6 inch or 55.6 x 37.1 cm for very good quality, and 18.2 x 12.2 inch or 46.3 x 30.9 cm for excellent quality prints.

The RX10 IV has on-sensor phase detect pixels, which results in fast and reliable autofocus acquisition even during live view operation.

Unlike the RX10 IV, the S1H has the capacity to capture high quality composite images (96MP) by combining multiple shots after shifting its sensor by miniscule distances. This multi-shot, pixel-shift mode is most suitable for photography of stationary objects (landscapes, studio scenes).

The Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H has a native sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 51200, which can be extended to ISO 50-204800. The corresponding ISO settings for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV are ISO 100 to ISO 12800, with the possibility to increase the ISO range to 64-25600.

Consistent information on actual sensor performance is available from DXO Mark for many cameras. This service determines an overall sensor rating, as well as sub-scores for low-light sensitivity ("DXO Sports"), dynamic range ("DXO Landscape"), and color depth ("DXO Portrait"). The following table provides an overview of the physical sensor characteristics, as well as the sensor quality measurements for a selection of comparators.

Many modern cameras cannot only take still pictures, but also record videos. Both cameras under consideration are equipped with sensors that have a sufficiently high read-out speed for moving images, but the S1H provides a higher video resolution than the RX10 IV. It can shoot video footage at 6K/30p, while the Sony is limited to 4K/30p.

Feature comparison

Apart from body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a range of features. The two cameras under consideration are similar with respect to both having an electronic viewfinder. However, the one in the S1H offers a substantially higher resolution than the one in the RX10 IV (5760k vs 2359k dots). The table below summarizes some of the other core capabilities of the Panasonic S1H and Sony RX10 IV in connection with corresponding information for a sample of similar cameras.

One difference between the cameras concerns the presence of an on-board flash. The RX10 IV has one, while the S1H does not. While the built-in flash of the RX10 IV is not very powerful, it can at times be useful as a fill-in light.

The reported shutter speed information refers to the use of the mechanical shutter. Yet, some cameras only have an electronic shutter, while others have an electronic shutter in addition to a mechanical one. In fact, both cameras under consideration feature an electronic shutter, which makes completely silent shooting possible. However, this mode is less suitable for photographing moving objects (risk of rolling shutter) or shooting under artificial light sources (risk of flickering).

The S1H writes its imaging data to SDXC cards, while the RX10 IV uses SDXC or Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. The S1H features dual card slots, which can be very useful in case a memory card fails. In contrast, the RX10 IV only has one slot. The S1H supports UHS-II cards (on both slots), while the RX10 IV can use UHS-I cards.

Connectivity comparison

For some imaging applications, the extent to which a camera can communicate with its environment can be an important aspect in the camera decision process. The table below provides an overview of the connectivity of the Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

Studio photographers will appreciate that the Panasonic S1H (unlike the RX10 IV) features a PC Sync socket, so that professional strobe lights can be controlled by the camera.

Both the S1H and the RX10 IV are recent models that are part of the current product line-up. The RX10 IV replaced the earlier Sony RX10 III, while the S1H does not have a direct predecessor. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Panasonic and Sony websites.

Review summary

So what is the bottom line? Is there a clear favorite between the Panasonic S1H and the Sony RX10 IV? Which camera is better? The listing below highlights the relative strengths of the two models.

Advantages of the Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H:

• More detail: Offers more megapixels (24 vs 20MP) with a 10% higher linear resolution.
• High quality composites: Can combine several shots after pixel-shifting its sensor.
• Better image quality: Features a larger and more technologically advanced imaging sensor.
• Richer colors: The sensor size advantage translates into images with better, more accurate colors.
• More dynamic range: Larger sensor captures a wider spectrum of light and dark details.
• Better low-light sensitivity: Larger sensor produces good images even in poorly lit environments.
• Better video: Provides higher definition movie capture (6K/30p vs 4K/30p).
• More detailed viewfinder: Has higher resolution electronic viewfinder (5760k vs 2359k dots).
• Larger viewfinder image: Features a viewfinder with a higher magnification (0.78x vs 0.70x).
• Larger screen: Has a bigger rear LCD (3.2" vs 3.0") for image review and settings control.
• More detailed LCD: Has a higher resolution rear screen (2330k vs 1440k dots).
• More flexible LCD: Has a swivel screen for odd-angle shots in portrait or landscape orientation.
• More selfie-friendly: Has an articulated screen that can be turned to be front-facing.
• Faster shutter: Has higher mechanical shutter speed (1/8000s vs 1/2000s) to freeze action.
• More flexible: Accepts interchangeable lenses, so that lens characteristics can be altered.
• Faster data transfer: Supports a more advanced USB protocol (3.1 vs 2.0).
• More solid recording: Has a full-sized HDMI port for a sturdy connection to an external recorder.
• Easier wireless transfer: Supports Bluetooth for image sharing without cables.
• Better studio light control: Has a PC Sync socket to connect to professional strobe lights.
• Greater peace of mind: Features a second card slot as a backup in case of memory card failure.
• Faster buffer clearing: Supports a more advanced SD data transfer standard (UHS-II vs UHS-I).
• More modern: Is somewhat more recent (announced 1 year and 8 months after the RX10 IV).

Reasons to prefer the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV:

• Better live-view autofocus: Features on-sensor phase-detection for more confident autofocus.
• Faster burst: Shoots at higher frequency (24 vs 9 flaps/sec) to capture the decisive moment.
• Ready to shoot: Has an integrated lens, whereas the S1H necessitates an extra lens.
• More compact: Is smaller (133x94mm vs 151x114mm) and will fit more readily into a bag.
• Easier fill-in: Has a small integrated flash to brighten shadows of backlit subjects.
• Easier device pairing: Supports NFC for fast wireless image transfer over short distances.
• More affordable: Was introduced at a lower price, despite coming with a built-in lens.
• More heavily discounted: Has been on the market for longer (launched in September 2017).

If the count of individual advantages (bullet points above) is taken as a guide, the S1H is the clear winner of the match-up (22 : 8 points). However, the pertinence of the various camera strengths will differ across photographers, so that you might want to weigh individual camera traits according to their importance for your own imaging needs before making a camera decision. A professional wildlife photographer will view the differences between cameras in a way that diverges from the perspective of a family photog, and a person interested in architecture has distinct needs from a sports shooter. Hence, the decision which camera is best and worth buying is often a very personal one.

How about other alternatives? Do the specifications of the Panasonic S1H and the Sony RX10 IV place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera and Best Superzoom Camera listings whether the two cameras rank among the cream of the crop.

In any case, while the comparison of the spec-sheets of cameras can offer a general idea of their imaging potential, it remains incomplete and does no justice, for example, to the way the S1H or the RX10 IV perform in practice. User reviews that are available, for instance, at amazon can sometimes shed light on these issues, but such feedback is all too often partial, inconsistent, and inaccurate.

Expert reviews

This is where reviews by experts come in. The adjacent summary-table relays the overall verdicts of several of the most popular camera review sites (cameralabs, dpreview, ephotozine, imaging-resource, and photographyblog). As can be seen, the professional reviewers agree in many cases on the quality of different cameras, but sometimes their assessments diverge, reinforcing the earlier point that a camera decision is often a very personal choice.

Review Scores

	Camera Model						Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Panasonic S1H»	-	-	-	-	-	May 2019	3,999			Panasonic S1H
	Sony RX10 IV«	+	84/100	4.5/5	-	5/5	Sep 2017	1,699			Sony RX10 IV
	Leica M-E Typ 240« »	-	-	-	-	-	Jun 2019	3,999			Leica M-E Typ 240
	Nikon Z6« »	-	-	4.5/5	4.5/5	5/5	Aug 2018	1,999			Nikon Z6
	Olympus E-M1X« »	o	-	4.5/5	5/5	-	Jan 2019	2,999			Olympus E-M1X
	Panasonic S1« »	+ +	88/100	4.5/5	-	4/5	Feb 2019	2,499			Panasonic S1
	Panasonic S1R« »	-	89/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Feb 2019	3,699			Panasonic S1R
	Panasonic G95« »	+	83/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Apr 2019	999			Panasonic G95
	Pentax K-1 II« »	-	79/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2018	1,999			Pentax K-1 II
	Sigma fp« »	-	-	-	-	-	Jul 2019	..			Sigma fp
	Sony A7R IV« »	+	-	-	-	5/5	Jul 2019	3,499			Sony A7R IV
	Sony A7 III« »	+ +	89/100	5/5	5/5	5/5	Feb 2018	1,999			Sony A7 III
	Sony RX100 VI« »	+ +	83/100	4/5	-	4.5/5	Jun 2018	1,199	-		Sony RX100 VI
	Sony RX10 III« »	+	84/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Mar 2016	1,499			Sony RX10 III
	Sony RX100 V« »	+ +	83/100	4/5	5/5	4.5/5	Oct 2016	999			Sony RX100 V
	Sony RX10 II« »	+ +	82/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4/5	Jun 2015	1,299	-		Sony RX10 II
	Sony RX10« »	+	80/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Oct 2013	1,299	-		Sony RX10
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (-) not available.

Care should be taken when interpreting the review scores above, though. The assessments were made in relation to similar cameras of the same technological generation. A score, therefore, has to be seen in close connection to the price and market introduction time of the camera, and comparisons of ratings among very different cameras or across long time periods have little meaning. Also, please note that some of the review sites have changed their methodology and reporting over time.

Other camera comparisons

Did this review help to inform your camera decision process? In case you are interested in seeing how other cameras pair up, just make a corresponding selection in the search boxes below. Alternatively, you can follow any of the listed hyperlinks for comparisons that others found interesting.

Specifications: Panasonic S1H vs Sony RX10 IV

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the specs of the two cameras to facilitate a quick review of their differences and common features.

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