Panasonic FH3 vs Panasonic G5

In this article, we are matching up the Panasonic FH3 and Panasonic G5, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are manufactured by Panasonic. The resolution of the FH3 (14MP) and the G5 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the FH3 (1/2.3") and G5 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FH3 was introduced 3 years prior to the G5 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a short highlight of how the FH3 scores versus the G5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FH3 Gallery and Panasonic G5 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FH3 features exterior measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Panasonic G5 has specifications of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs).

See the Panasonic FH3 and Panasonic G5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the FH3 and the G5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FH3 and G5 is 94 and 74 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to see the difference in sensor sizes merely by seeing specifications. The picture underneath will help provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FH3 and G5.

To sum up, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FH3 having a smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh harder and the Panasonic G5 will show extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged FH3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.