Panasonic FX580 vs Panasonic GF3

Here is a extended overview of the Panasonic FX580 versus Panasonic GF3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are manufactured by Panasonic. The resolution of the FX580 (12MP) and the GF3 (12MP) is very well matched but the FX580 (1/2.3") and GF3 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The FX580 was manufactured 3 years earlier than the GF3 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FX580 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise summation of how the FX580 grades versus the GF3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX580 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX580 Gallery and Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FX580 features outside dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Panasonic GF3 has measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

See the Panasonic FX580 versus Panasonic GF3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the FX580 against the GF3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the FX580 and GF3 is 95 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the gap between sensor sizing purely by looking at technical specs. The visual here may give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FX580 and GF3.

As you can tell, both the cameras offer the same exact MP but not the same sensor sizing. The FX580 contains the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining shallower DOF tougher. The older FX580 is going to be behind in sensor technology.