Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic ZR3

Here, we will be comparing the Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic ZR3, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are created by Panasonic. The resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and ZR3 (1/2.3") posses different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The GF1 was manufactured 3 months before the ZR3 which means that they are of a similar age. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summation of how the GF1 grades against the ZR3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to travel with your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF1 offers external dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) while the Panasonic ZR3 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GF1 vs Panasonic ZR3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the GF1 and the ZR3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GF1 and ZR3 is 85 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by looking at specifications. The picture here might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the GF1 and ZR3.

Plainly, the 2 cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The GF1 due to its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic ZR3 will give more detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots way more aggressively.