Canon G12 vs Panasonic ZR3

Here, we will be analyzing the Canon G12 and Panasonic ZR3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Canon and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the G12 (10MP) and ZR3 (14MP) and the G12 (1/1.7") and ZR3 (1/2.3") posses different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The G12 was manufactured 12 months after the ZR3 so they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summation of how the G12 matches up against the ZR3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot G12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon G12 Gallery and Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and size. The Canon G12 comes with physical measurements of 112mm x 76mm x 48mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 1.9") having a weight of 401 grams (0.88 lbs) and the Panasonic ZR3 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Analyze the Canon G12 and Panasonic ZR3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the G12 and the ZR3.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the G12 and ZR3 is 83 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes just by checking technical specs. The picture below will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the G12 and ZR3.

As you can tell, both of the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The G12 due to its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic ZR3 will resolve extra detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs way more aggressively. The more recent G12 provides an advantage in sensor tech.