Panasonic G1 vs Panasonic S3

On this page, we are reviewing the Panasonic G1 vs Panasonic S3, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the G1 (12MP) and the S3 (14MP) is very close but the G1 (Four Thirds) and S3 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The G1 was launched 23 months before the S3 making them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic G1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before getting into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summation of how the G1 grades against the S3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic G1 Gallery & Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic G1 has got outer measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") having a weight of 360 grams (0.79 lbs) whilst the Panasonic S3 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic G1 vs Panasonic S3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view size comparison of the G1 against the S3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the G1 and S3 is 82 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to see the contrast in sensor sizing only by researching specifications. The graphic below might give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the G1 and S3.

To sum up, both of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The G1 due to its larger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field simpler and the Panasonic S3 will result in more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop photos more aggressively. The older G1 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.