Panasonic FH7 vs Panasonic GH3

Lets look a little more closely at the Panasonic FH7 and Panasonic GH3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and both are sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FH7 (16MP) and the GH3 (16MP) is very similar but the FH7 (1/2.3") and GH3 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor size.

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The FH7 was introduced 12 months before the GH3 which means that they are of a similar generation. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH7 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the FH7 scores vs the GH3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH7 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH7 Gallery and Panasonic GH3 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FH7 offers exterior measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Panasonic GH3 has sizing of 133mm x 93mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.2") and a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FH7 and Panasonic GH3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at the time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the FH7 versus the GH3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FH7 and GH3 is 96 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading specifications. The picture below should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the FH7 and GH3.

To sum up, both the cameras provide the same megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The FH7 provides the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining shallower DOF more challenging. The more aged FH7 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.