Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GF1

Below is a thorough analysis of the Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GF1, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is fairly close but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The 3D1 was manufactured 2 years later than the GF1 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a thorough comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the 3D1 matches up versus the GF1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic 3D1 comes with physical measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF1 has proportions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

See the Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GF1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the 3D1 compared to the GF1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the 3D1 and GF1 is 93 and 85 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to see the contrast in sensor measurements purely by researching a spec sheet. The visual here will give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the 3D1 and GF1.

Clearly, both cameras posses the exact same MP but not the same sensor measurements. The 3D1 has got the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field tougher. The more modern 3D1 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.