Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic GH3

Following is a thorough assessment of the Panasonic FZ100 versus Panasonic GH3, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and both are produced by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ100 (14MP) and the GH3 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the FZ100 (1/2.3") and GH3 (Four Thirds) boast totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FZ100 was announced 3 years earlier than the GH3 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GH3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the FZ100 matches up versus the GH3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FZ100 Gallery & Panasonic GH3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ100 enjoys outside measurements of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) and the Panasonic GH3 has proportions of 133mm x 93mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.2") with a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FZ100 versus Panasonic GH3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use during that time. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the FZ100 vs the GH3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the FZ100 and GH3 is 67 and 66 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes purely by going through specifications. The image below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FZ100 and GH3.

To sum up, both of those cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FZ100 with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic GH3 will produce extra detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images more aggressively. The more aged FZ100 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.