Panasonic FZ300 vs Panasonic GF3

On this page, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FZ300 vs Panasonic GF3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are designed by Panasonic. The resolution of the FZ300 (12MP) and the GF3 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the FZ300 (1/2.3") and GF3 (Four Thirds) provide different sensor sizes.

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The FZ300 was introduced 3 years later than the GF3 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go into a in-depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the FZ300 scores versus the GF3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ300 Gallery and Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ300 offers exterior dimensions of 132mm x 92mm x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6") having a weight of 691 grams (1.52 lbs) while the Panasonic GF3 has dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FZ300 vs Panasonic GF3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at that time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the FZ300 compared to the GF3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the FZ300 and GF3 is 59 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, its difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements only by checking out technical specs. The graphic below should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ300 and GF3.

As you have seen, each of these cameras provide the same MP albeit different sensor measurements. The FZ300 comes with the smaller sensor which will make achieving shallower depth of field trickier. The newer FZ300 provides an advantage with regard to sensor technology.