Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic G7

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic 3D1 and Panasonic G7, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and both are manufactured by Panasonic. There is a big difference between the sensor resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and G7 (16MP) and the 3D1 (1/2.3") and G7 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The 3D1 was launched 4 years before the G7 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G7 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a full comparison, below is a simple summary of how the 3D1 matches up vs the G7 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Panasonic G7 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic 3D1 comes with exterior dimensions of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") having a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Panasonic G7 has measurements of 125mm x 86mm x 77mm (4.9" x 3.4" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 410 grams (0.90 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic 3D1 and Panasonic G7 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the 3D1 compared to the G7.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the 3D1 and G7 is 93 and 71 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor measurements purely by looking at specs. The visual underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the 3D1 and G7.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The 3D1 due to its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF trickier and the Panasonic G7 will resolve greater detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The older 3D1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.