Panasonic GF1 vs Sony NEX-3

Let's look a bit more closely at the Panasonic GF1 and Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) boast different sensor dimensions.

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The GF1 was introduced 7 months earlier than the NEX-3 and they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a short view of how the GF1 scores against the NEX-3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF1 has external measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3 has measurements of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GF1 and Sony NEX-3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the GF1 and the NEX-3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the GF1 and NEX-3 is 85 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to imagine the gap between sensor measurements purely by checking a spec sheet. The graphic here will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GF1 and NEX-3.

Clearly, both of those cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GF1 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Sony NEX-3 will give more detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The older GF1 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.