Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic SZ3

On this page, we will be comparing the Panasonic GF1 versus Panasonic SZ3, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are manufactured by Panasonic. There exists a crucial gap between the image resolutions of the GF1 (12MP) and SZ3 (16MP) and the GF1 (Four Thirds) and SZ3 (1/2.3") provide different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The GF1 was launched 4 years earlier than the SZ3 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the GF1 matches up versus the SZ3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic GF1 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF1 features exterior measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ3 has measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GF1 versus Panasonic SZ3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the GF1 vs the SZ3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF1 and SZ3 is 85 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to picture the gap between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specifications. The visual here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the GF1 and SZ3.

To sum up, the two cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GF1 featuring a bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic SZ3 will offer you more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.