Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GH2

Below is a in-depth overview of the Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GH2, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless and both of them are built by Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and GH2 (16MP) and the 3D1 (1/2.3") and GH2 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor sizes.

Meta to Introduce 'AI-Generated' Labels for Media starting next month

The 3D1 was manufactured 8 months later than the GH2 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the 3D1 scores against the GH2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you'll need to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic 3D1 comes with exterior dimensions of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Panasonic GH2 has specifications of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Check the Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GH2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Following is a front view size comparison of the 3D1 compared to the GH2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the 3D1 and GH2 is 93 and 70 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to see the contrast in sensor measurements just by going through a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the 3D1 and GH2.

Clearly, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The 3D1 due to its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic GH2 will provide extra detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs more aggressively. The younger 3D1 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.