Panasonic G3 vs Pentax 645Z

Following is a comprehensive review of the Panasonic G3 versus Pentax 645Z, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Pro DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a noticeable gap among the image resolutions of the G3 (16MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the G3 (Four Thirds) and 645Z (Medium format) possess different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The G3 was unveiled 3 years earlier than the 645Z which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before going straight into a full comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the G3 scores against the 645Z with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 & Pentax 645Z. The full galleries are available at Panasonic G3 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic G3 enjoys exterior measurements 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 Pentax 645Z has dimensions of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") and a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic G3 versus Pentax 645Z in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the G3 vs the 645Z.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the G3 and 645Z is 83 and 49 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to imagine the difference in sensor sizes simply by looking through specifications. The pic underneath might give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the G3 and 645Z.

Plainly, the two cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The G3 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Pentax 645Z will provide you with extra detail having an extra 35MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more aged G3 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.