Panasonic FP3 vs Panasonic GF8

Below, we are contrasting the Panasonic FP3 versus Panasonic GF8, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FP3 (14MP) and the GF8 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the FP3 (1/2.3") and GF8 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FP3 was revealed 7 years earlier than the GF8 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the FP3 scores vs the GF8 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP3 Gallery and Panasonic GF8 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP3 has external dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF8 has dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FP3 versus Panasonic GF8 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at the time. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the FP3 against the GF8.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the FP3 and GF8 is 95 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at technical specs. The graphic underneath should provide you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP3 and GF8.

As you can tell, each of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FP3 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field harder and the Panasonic GF8 will give you more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images somewhat more aggressively. The older FP3 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.