Panasonic FH20 vs Panasonic GH3

Here is a in depth review of the Panasonic FH20 and Panasonic GH3, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and they are both designed by Panasonic. The resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the GH3 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the FH20 (1/2.3") and GH3 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

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The FH20 was revealed 3 years prior to the GH3 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the FH20 scores vs the GH3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FH20 Gallery & Panasonic GH3 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FH20 has got external dimensions of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) while the Panasonic GH3 has sizing of 133mm x 93mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH20 and Panasonic GH3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the FH20 compared to the GH3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH20 and GH3 is 93 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by reading through technical specs. The graphic below may provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the FH20 and GH3.

As you can tell, both of the cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FH20 with its tinier sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic GH3 will give more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics much more aggressively. The older FH20 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.