Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic G3

The following is a in-depth assessment of the Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic G3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are sold by Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and G3 (16MP) and the FX78 (1/2.3") and G3 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FX78 was launched 5 months before the G3 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a more detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the FX78 grades against the G3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Panasonic G3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic FX78 provides outside dimensions of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Panasonic G3 has specifications of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") having a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic G3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at the time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the FX78 and the G3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FX78 and G3 is 95 and 83 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions only by going through a spec sheet. The picture underneath may give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the FX78 and G3.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The FX78 because of its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic G3 will provide extra detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively.