Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic GF3

Let's look a little more closely at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Panasonic GF3, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the GF3 (12MP) is very well matched but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and GF3 (Four Thirds) feature different sensor size.

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The XZ-2 iHS was announced 17 months later than the GF3 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus XZ-2 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief summation of how the XZ-2 iHS grades versus the GF3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS has exterior measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") with a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) and the Panasonic GF3 has measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Panasonic GF3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use at the time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the XZ-2 iHS versus the GF3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-2 iHS and GF3 is 85 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it's tough to visualize the difference between sensor sizing just by looking at technical specs. The photograph here will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-2 iHS and GF3.

As you can tell, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixels but different sensor sizing. The XZ-2 iHS uses the tinier sensor which is going to make getting bokeh more challenging. The fresher XZ-2 iHS should have an edge in sensor tech.