Panasonic G5 vs Panasonic S3

Here is a complete analysis of the Panasonic G5 versus Panasonic S3, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both created by Panasonic. The resolution of the G5 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is very close but the G5 (Four Thirds) and S3 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor size.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The G5 was launched 19 months later than the S3 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise view of how the G5 scores vs the S3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic G5 Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic G5 features external dimensions of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs) while the Panasonic S3 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic G5 versus Panasonic S3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at the time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the G5 against the S3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the G5 and S3 is 74 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to picture the difference in sensor sizing simply by researching specs. The graphic underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the G5 and S3.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The G5 due to its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic G5 will result in more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more modern G5 should have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.