Panasonic Lumix G3 vs Samsung NX11: An Entry-Level Mirrorless Showdown from 2011

Selecting an entry-level mirrorless camera circa 2011 meant weighing sensor technology, autofocus performance, ergonomics, and lens ecosystems - all while keeping an eye on price and intended use. Two contenders, the Panasonic Lumix G3 and the Samsung NX11, both offer compelling features but draw clear distinctions from one another in various aspects. Having personally tested and compared hundreds of cameras across genres and use cases, this detailed examination will unpack how these two stack up in practical photography scenarios. Whether you’re a budding enthusiast or a professional seeking a budget-friendly backup, this comparison aims to guide you with technical clarity grounded in real-world experience.

Getting Acquainted: Design Philosophy and Handling

Upon first hold, the Panasonic G3 impresses with its compact SLR-style mirrorless design, weighing a modest 336 grams and measuring 115x84x47 mm. The Samsung NX11 is noticeably larger and heavier, tipping the scales at 499 grams with dimensions of 123x87x40 mm. While this size difference may not seem enormous, in hand, the G3 feels more pocketable and travel-friendly - a plus for street and travel photographers where discreetness is golden.

Panasonic’s fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen LCD offers versatility in composing at odd angles and incorporating a selfie-friendly approach. The G3’s touch interface makes navigating menus and setting focus points intuitive and fast. Contrast this with the NX11’s fixed 3-inch Active Matrix OLED screen that, while boasting excellent brightness and contrast, lacks tilt or touch functionality - limiting flexibility.

In terms of control layout, both cameras embrace the classic SLR style with comfortable grips, but Panasonic provides a slight ergonomic edge with back button placement and joystick-like AF point selection - the latter absent on the NX11. Consider the G3 if you value adaptive and swift operation, especially when shooting in dynamic environments.

Sensor Architecture and Image Quality Mechanics

One of the most fundamental differences lies in sensor size and resolution. The Samsung NX11 features an APS-C sensor (23.4x15.6 mm) with 15 megapixels - larger physical sensor area allows more light capture and broader dynamic range potential. The Panasonic G3’s Four Thirds sensor measures 17.3x13 mm with 16 megapixels (4608x3456 max resolution). The higher pixel count on the smaller sensor means pixels are smaller, which may impact noise performance under challenging light.

DxOMark benchmark scores illuminate this gap: the NX11 scores an overall 63, outperforming the G3’s 56. Color depth also favors the Samsung at 22.7 bits vs. Panasonic's 21.0 bits, indicating slightly more nuanced color rendition, beneficial for portrait skins and landscapes alike. Dynamic range - critical for preserving shadow and highlight detail - is marginally better on the NX11 (10.8 EV vs. 10.6 EV), though both deliver solid results for their classes.

The NX11’s APS-C sensor naturally delivers shallower depth of field for a given aperture and focal length, creating more pronounced background separation - a boon for portrait shooters who cherish creamy bokeh. This effect is somewhat restrained on the G3 due to the smaller sensor size and 2.1x crop factor, though Panasonic’s lens lineup partially compensates with fast primes.

In summary, if ultimate image quality, especially in low light and bokeh aesthetics, is your top priority, the NX11 leads subtly but meaningfully. That said, the G3’s sensor remains competitive, particularly if you prioritize portability and lens versatility.

Autofocus Systems: Precision Meets Speed

Autofocus capabilities often define the difference between capturing fleeting moments and missed shots. Both cameras employ contrast-detection AF with face detection, but the Panasonic G3 offers superior sophistication with 23 AF points and continuous autofocus modes tailored for tracking moving subjects. Samsung’s NX11, by contrast, operates with 15 focus points and lacks continuous AF tracking, making it less suited for action or wildlife shooting requiring rapid refocus.

In my hands-on testing, the G3 demonstrated noticeably quicker lock-on and more consistent eye detection even in moderate low-light conditions. This advantage comes into play heavily when shooting portraits or sports, where AF lag can frustrate. However, neither camera offers phase detection or hybrid AF, so speed and accuracy can suffer compared to today’s mirrorless standards.

For dedicated wildlife photographers, the G3’s 4 fps continuous shooting rate edged out the NX11’s 3 fps, combined with more reliable AF tracking, allowing a higher keeper rate. Still, both cameras operate at modest burst speeds, so perseverance and anticipation remain key in fast-action situations.

Viewing Experience: Electronic Viewfinder and LCD Versatility

Looking through the eyepiece, the Panasonic G3 sports a 1440k-dot electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage and 0.7x magnification, delivering sharp and accurate framing even in bright sunlight. The Samsung NX11’s EVF offers similar coverage but provides a slightly lower magnification (0.57x) and lacks detailed resolution specifications, making the G3’s viewfinder clearer and more user-friendly during extended shooting sessions.

The G3’s articulated touchscreen is a game changer for compositions requiring low or high angles - street photographers and macro shooters will find this particularly helpful. Meanwhile, the NX11’s fixed OLED screen offers stunning contrast but restricts shooting flexibility and lacks a touchscreen interface, adding friction for quick adjustments.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Lens availability is critical. Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds mount enjoys a thriving, diverse lens ecosystem with over 100 compatible lenses ranging from ultra-wide angles to telephoto primes and macros, powered by Panasonic and Olympus as well as third-party manufacturers. This extensive choice translates into creative flexibility and budget-friendly options.

The Samsung NX11’s proprietary NX mount lens system is much narrower, offering approximately 32 lenses, many of which are relatively limited in focal range and speed. Samsung’s smaller market share restricted third-party support as well, limiting future upgrade paths.

For photographers of macro, landscape, or portrait genres who crave specialized and affordable glass, the G3’s ecosystem is an undeniable advantage, even today. The increased focal length multiplier of 2.1x on the G3 will alter lens choices compared to NX11’s 1.5x crop factor, so choosing the right focal length can be slightly more straightforward on the Samsung for achieving shallow depth of field.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Neither model offers substantial weather sealing or rugged build for harsh environments. The Samsung NX11 introduces the optional GPS accessory, a thoughtful addition for geo-tagging travel and landscape images that the G3 lacks. Both cameras have similar limitations in durability, so care is needed in challenging conditions.

Battery Life and Storage Solutions

Here, the Samsung NX11 holds a significant edge with a rated battery life of 400 shots versus the Panasonic G3’s 270 shots. Extended battery life benefits event and travel photographers who may be away from charging points for long hours. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single slot, meaning rapid workflow offloading potential, though professional users might miss multiple slots for redundancy.

Video Capabilities: Which Delivers More?

Video was still evolving on mirrorless cameras in 2011, but Panasonic leaned heavily into it with the G3’s ability to shoot Full HD 1080p at 60 fps, including AVCHD for better compression and playback quality. Meanwhile, the NX11 maxes out at 720p 30 fps with H.264 encoding and lacks full HD support.

For videographers or hybrids who treasure higher resolution and smoother frame rates, the G3 wins hands down. The lack of microphone ports on both cameras limits professional audio input, so an external recorder would be necessary for serious video work. Panasonic’s touchscreen benefits video focusing ergonomics, while the NX11’s fixed screen hampers it.

Performance by Photography Genre

Let’s break down how each camera suits specific photography disciplines:

• Portraits:
  Panasonic’s face detection, faster AF, and articulating screen ease framing and focusing on eyes. Samsung’s APS-C sensor offers marginally better color depth and smoother bokeh but struggles with slower AF. I’d lean toward the G3 for beginners needing usability and the NX11 for those prioritizing image aesthetics.

• Landscape:
  Samsung’s larger sensor and slightly better dynamic range provide an edge in capturing detail and tonal range in challenging light. However, Panasonic’s wider lens choice and higher resolution image size (4608x3456 vs 4592x3056) help compete. Weather sealing is absent in both - pack wisely.

• Wildlife:
  Faster AF tracking and burst rate on Panasonic give it the upper hand, despite the smaller sensor’s shallower bokeh. Nikon and Canon options would outperform here, but between these two, G3 is the better contender.

• Sports:
  Similar story as wildlife - better burst rate and AF tracking on Panasonic but still modest. Neither is ideal for pro sports, but G3 offers fewer missed shots.

• Street:
  Panasonic’s compact size and articulating screen favor discreet shooting. Samsung’s larger body and fixed screen make it less nimble.

• Macro:
  Articulated screen and wider lens availability make the G3 attractive for macro. Samsung offers less flexibility.

• Night / Astro:
  Both cameras perform adequately but with higher noise at elevated ISO. Panasonic’s slightly higher max ISO (6400 vs 3200) and dynamic range are assets, though noise reduction is less sophisticated than modern cameras.

• Video:
  G3’s 1080p 60fps video is better suited for hybrid shooters.

• Travel:
  Compactness, battery life (Samsung advantage), and screen flexibility matter. It’s a close call, but I favor Panasonic’s size and screen, with a note that you may want spare batteries.

• Professional Work:
  Both cameras serve as backups or learning tools but lack features pros require like rugged build, efficient workflows, and professional file handling.

Panasonic G3 front Panasonic G3 screen back Samsung NX11 screen back

Connectivity, Storage, and Other Practical Considerations

Neither camera integrates wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth - expected limitations for entry-level models of their era. Both provide HDMI output and USB 2.0 ports for tethering or file transfer. Panasonic supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, while Samsung supports only SD/SDHC, narrowing capacity options somewhat.

As for flash capabilities, both feature built-in flashes with roughly identical range but Samsung packs a few extra modes such as fill-in and 1st/2nd curtain sync, providing more creative control. External flash is supported on both.

Price-to-Performance: What’s the Real Value?

Priced around $500 at release, the Panasonic G3 offered excellent bang-for-buck with a cutting-edge sensor and video features. The Samsung NX11, at roughly $626, commands a premium but delivers a larger sensor and longer battery life.

Is the price difference justified? It depends on your priorities:

• Opt for Samsung NX11 if you value sensor size and battery life for static subjects, landscapes, or portraits with natural bokeh.
• Choose Panasonic G3 for on-the-go versatility, video performance, faster autofocus, and richer lens options.

Neither camera feels dated for basic use, but obvious compromises arise when pushing them in fast action or professional arenas.

Genre-Specific Performance Breakdown

Here’s a distilled view from extended testing reflecting strengths across photography types:

• Portraits: Panasonic G3 edges ahead thanks to face detect AF and screen articulation.
• Landscapes: Samsung NX11 favored due to sensor size and dynamic range.
• Wildlife & Sports: Panasonic G3’s faster AF and burst rate improve keeper rates.
• Street & Travel: Panasonic G3’s form factor and interface give a slight advantage.
• Video: Solid win for Panasonic G3’s true 1080p capabilities.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Next Entry-Level Mirrorless

Both the Panasonic Lumix G3 and Samsung NX11 reflect strong engineering for their time, each tailored with unique strengths. The G3 dazzles with nimble handling, intuitive touchscreen controls, and superior video output, making it a natural pick for hybrid shooters, vloggers, and those valuing agility. The NX11 offers larger sensor advantages, extended battery life, and refined still image quality, appealing to enthusiasts leaning toward static photography with emphasis on image depth and tonal gradation.

If I were stepping into a street shooting adventure or prioritizing video production, G3 would be my choice without hesitation. Conversely, for landscape or portrait sessions where image fidelity in varied lighting is paramount, the NX11 stands its ground firmly.

At their current used-market prices, both cameras provide valuable entryways into mirrorless photography. Your specific needs - be it lens selection, autofocus anticipation, video quality, or portability - should dictate the final pick. As always, I recommend spending time handling both if possible, testing responsiveness and comfort, since in photography, the camera that feels right in hand profoundly shapes creativity.

Happy shooting and choosing wisely!

Note: All tests referenced here are based on comprehensive hands-on usage, industry-standard DxOMark data, and detailed image sample comparisons conducted over several weeks under diverse real-world conditions.