Panasonic FP3 vs Panasonic GH4

On this page, we are analyzing the Panasonic FP3 versus Panasonic GH4, former is a Ultracompact while the other is a Pro Mirrorless and both of them are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FP3 (14MP) and the GH4 (16MP) is very comparable but the FP3 (1/2.3") and GH4 (Four Thirds) have totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The FP3 was manufactured 5 years before the GH4 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GH4 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the FP3 matches up vs the GH4 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP3 Gallery & Panasonic GH4 Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP3 has outer measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) and the Panasonic GH4 has dimensions of 133mm x 93mm x 84mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.3") having a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs).

See the Panasonic FP3 versus Panasonic GH4 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the FP3 vs the GH4.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FP3 and GH4 is 95 and 66 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the difference in sensor dimensions purely by going through a spec sheet. The picture below will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FP3 and GH4.

As you can see, each of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The FP3 because of its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic GH4 will produce more detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more aged FP3 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.