Panasonic G5 vs Panasonic ZS3

Lets look a little more closely at the Panasonic G5 versus Panasonic ZS3, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both sold by Panasonic. There is a considerable difference between the image resolutions of the G5 (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) and the G5 (Four Thirds) and ZS3 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The G5 was manufactured 3 years later than the ZS3 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the G5 matches up against the ZS3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic G5 Gallery & Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic G5 provides exterior measurements of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") with a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has sizing of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic G5 versus Panasonic ZS3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the G5 vs the ZS3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the G5 and ZS3 is 74 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing only by going over a spec sheet. The visual here will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the G5 and ZS3.

Clearly, each of the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The G5 due to its larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic G5 will deliver greater detail due to its extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The younger G5 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.