Panasonic G3 vs Panasonic ZS45

Here is a extended review of the Panasonic G3 versus Panasonic ZS45, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the G3 (16MP) and the ZS45 (16MP) is fairly close but the G3 (Four Thirds) and ZS45 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The G3 was revealed 4 years before the ZS45 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the G3 scores against the ZS45 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The full galleries are available at Panasonic G3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic G3 offers physical 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 ZS45 has sizing of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic G3 versus Panasonic ZS45 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the G3 against the ZS45.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the G3 and ZS45 is 83 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The graphic here might offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the G3 and ZS45.

As you have seen, each of these cameras have the same megapixel count but not the same sensor sizing. The G3 includes the larger sensor which is going to make getting shallower depth of field simpler. The older G3 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.