Panasonic G3 vs Panasonic ZS15

Below, we are analyzing the Panasonic G3 and Panasonic ZS15, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both created by Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap between the resolutions of the G3 (16MP) and ZS15 (12MP) and the G3 (Four Thirds) and ZS15 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The G3 was revealed 11 months before the ZS15 which means that they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick overview of how the G3 matches up against the ZS15 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic G3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic G3 comes with external dimensions of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") and a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS15 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic G3 and Panasonic ZS15 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the G3 against the ZS15.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the G3 and ZS15 is 83 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by checking a spec sheet. The image underneath should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the G3 and ZS15.

Clearly, both the cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The G3 having a larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic G3 will give you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more aged G3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.