To celebrate 25 years of Panasonic Lumix cameras, a tech journalist revisits the Lumix G1, the world’s first mirrorless camera, to evaluate its performance and relevance in 2026.

Key Points

• The Panasonic Lumix G1, released 18 years ago, was the industry's first mirrorless camera to replace traditional DSLRs.
• Secondhand models are widely available, with complete kits often selling for as little as £80.
• The camera features a 12MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, a 3fps burst rate, and an ISO range limited to 100–3200.
• Despite its age, the G1 includes functional human subject-detection autofocus and a familiar, ergonomic DSLR-style design.
• The Micro Four Thirds system allows for cross-brand lens compatibility, enabling the use of modern lenses like the Olympus 45mm f/1.8.

Why it Matters

The Lumix G1 serves as a historical benchmark for the mirrorless technology that currently dominates the professional and consumer photography markets. Its continued usability highlights the longevity of camera hardware and offers a budget-friendly entry point for enthusiasts interested in the evolution of digital imaging.