Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic GF7

Let's look more closely at the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic GF7, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap among the image resolutions of the E-PL3 (12MP) and GF7 (16MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL3 was released 4 years prior to the GF7 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short overview of how the E-PL3 scores versus the GF7 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Panasonic GF7 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to lug around your camera, you need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL3 offers external measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF7 has dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic GF7 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 have chosen at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the E-PL3 against the GF7.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL3 and GF7 is 88 and 90 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to see the difference in sensor measurements merely by going through specifications. The photograph here might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL3 and GF7.

To sum up, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic GF7 to provide more detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older E-PL3 will be behind in sensor technology.