Canon G1 X vs Panasonic G3

Here, we are comparing the Canon G1 X and Panasonic G3, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Canon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the G1 X (14MP) and the G3 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the G1 X (1.5") and G3 (Four Thirds) boast different sensor size.

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The G1 X was manufactured 9 months later than the G3 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Canon G1 X being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summary of how the G1 X grades versus the G3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot G1 X and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The entire galleries are provided at Canon G1 X Gallery and Panasonic G3 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera often, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon G1 X comes with exterior measurements of 117mm x 81mm x 65mm (4.6" x 3.2" x 2.6") with a weight of 534 grams (1.18 lbs) while the Panasonic G3 has proportions of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") and a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon G1 X and Panasonic G3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are using at that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the G1 X and the G3.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the G1 X and G3 is 75 and 83 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to visualize the gap in sensor sizing purely by checking out a spec sheet. The visual here might provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the G1 X and G3.

As you can see, both the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The G1 X because of its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF simpler and the Panasonic G3 will provide greater detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images way more aggressively. The more recent G1 X provides a benefit in sensor technology.