Panasonic GF1 vs Sony G3

Let's look more closely at the Panasonic GF1 and Sony G3, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the G3 (10MP) is fairly close but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and G3 (1/2.3") offer different sensor sizes.

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The GF1 was announced 10 months later than the G3 so they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony G3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the GF1 grades versus the G3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-G3. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Sony G3 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF1 features physical measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Sony G3 has dimensions of 97mm x 59mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GF1 and Sony G3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the GF1 vs the G3.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the GF1 and G3 is 85 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to imagine the gap in sensor measurements simply by viewing technical specs. The photograph below will offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the GF1 and G3.

As you have seen, the two cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The GF1 with its larger sensor is going to make shooting bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic GF1 will render greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images way more aggressively. The fresher GF1 should have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.