Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic GX850

In this article, we will be analyzing the Panasonic 3D1 versus Panasonic GX850, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both sold by Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the image resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and GX850 (16MP) and the 3D1 (1/2.3") and GX850 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor measurements.

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The 3D1 was launched 6 years earlier than the GX850 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX850 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the 3D1 scores vs the GX850 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Panasonic GX850 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic 3D1 provides external 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 GX850 has dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic 3D1 versus Panasonic GX850 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the 3D1 and the GX850.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 3D1 and GX850 is 93 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by going through specifications. The visual here might provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the 3D1 and GX850.

To sum up, both cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 3D1 because of its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF trickier and the Panasonic GX850 will show more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older 3D1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.