Nikon 1 AW1 vs Panasonic GF3

Below is a extended assessment of the Nikon 1 AW1 and Panasonic GF3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the 1 AW1 (14MP) and the GF3 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the 1 AW1 (1") and GF3 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor size.

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The 1 AW1 was launched 2 years later than the GF3 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the 1 AW1 scores vs the GF3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 AW1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 AW1 Gallery & Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Nikon 1 AW1 has got exterior dimensions of 114mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 356 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Panasonic GF3 has measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

Look at the Nikon 1 AW1 and Panasonic GF3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the 1 AW1 against the GF3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 AW1 and GF3 is 86 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements simply by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic here may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 AW1 and GF3.

Clearly, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The 1 AW1 due to its tinier sensor will make getting bokeh harder and the Nikon 1 AW1 will give more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos way more aggressively. The newer 1 AW1 will have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.