Panasonic G1 vs Panasonic G3

On this page, we are contrasting the Panasonic G1 versus Panasonic G3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and they are both manufactured by Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap among the image resolutions of the G1 (12MP) and G3 (16MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The G1 was introduced 3 years before the G3 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short introduction of how the G1 grades against the G3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic G1 Gallery & Panasonic G3 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic G1 has got outer dimensions of 124mm x 84mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") with a weight of 360 grams (0.79 lbs) and the Panasonic G3 has dimensions of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") and a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

Check the Panasonic G1 versus Panasonic G3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the G1 and the G3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the G1 and G3 is 82 and 83 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to see the difference in sensor sizing purely by looking through technical specs. The visual below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the G1 and G3.

As you have seen, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You can anticipate the Panasonic G3 to render more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a bit more aggressively. The older G1 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.