Panasonic FH1 vs Panasonic GH3

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic FH1 versus Panasonic GH3, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and both of them are produced by Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference between the image resolutions of the FH1 (12MP) and GH3 (16MP) and the FH1 (1/2.3") and GH3 (Four Thirds) boast different sensor size.

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The FH1 was launched 3 years earlier than the GH3 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a thorough comparison, here is a short introduction of how the FH1 scores versus the GH3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH1 Gallery & Panasonic GH3 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH1 comes with physical measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) and the Panasonic GH3 has dimensions of 133mm x 93mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.2") along with a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FH1 versus Panasonic GH3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the FH1 compared to the GH3.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the FH1 and GH3 is 95 and 66 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizes just by reviewing specifications. The image below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FH1 and GH3.

Plainly, the two cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FH1 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic GH3 will deliver extra detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more aged FH1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.