Olympus E-3 vs Panasonic GF1

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus E-3 versus Panasonic GF1, former being a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-3 (10MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is pretty close and both cameras have the identical sensor dimensions (Four Thirds).

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The E-3 was released 20 months earlier than the GF1 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick view of how the E-3 grades versus the GF1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-3 Gallery & Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-3 has got external dimensions of 142mm x 116mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") with a weight of 890 grams (1.96 lbs) while the Panasonic GF1 has measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-3 versus Panasonic GF1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the E-3 and the GF1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-3 and GF1 is 56 and 85 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to imagine the gap in sensor measurements purely by researching specifications. The graphic here will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the E-3 and GF1.

Plainly, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Panasonic GF1 to provide you with greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots way more aggressively. The older E-3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.