Panasonic G1 vs Sony NEX-3N

Following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic G1 versus Sony NEX-3N, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the G1 (12MP) and NEX-3N (16MP) and the G1 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3N (APS-C) posses totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The G1 was announced 5 years earlier than the NEX-3N which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony NEX-3N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick summary of how the G1 scores against the NEX-3N in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 & Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic G1 Gallery & Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera, you are going to need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic G1 provides outside measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") and a weight of 360 grams (0.79 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3N has measurements of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic G1 versus Sony NEX-3N in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are employing at that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the G1 and the NEX-3N.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the G1 and NEX-3N is 82 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it is very tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizes purely by researching a spec sheet. The pic below will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the G1 and NEX-3N.

Clearly, the two cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The G1 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Sony NEX-3N will render extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more aged G1 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.