Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GF5

On this page, we will be reviewing the Panasonic 3D1 and Panasonic GF5, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are designed by Panasonic. The resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the GF5 (12MP) is pretty close but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The 3D1 was brought out 5 months before the GF5 so they are both of a similar age. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the 3D1 grades against the GF5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic 3D1 comes with outer measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Panasonic GF5 has dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic 3D1 and Panasonic GF5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the 3D1 against the GF5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the 3D1 and GF5 is 93 and 89 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to visualise the gap in sensor measurements simply by researching specifications. The graphic here will give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the 3D1 and GF5.

To sum up, both of those cameras provide the same MP albeit not the same sensor measurements. The 3D1 uses the smaller sensor which should make getting shallow depth of field more challenging.