Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic LZ40

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic LZ40, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are built by Panasonic. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the GF3 (12MP) and LZ40 (20MP) and the GF3 (Four Thirds) and LZ40 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor size.

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The GF3 was released 3 years prior to the LZ40 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the GF3 matches up vs the LZ40 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Panasonic LZ40 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GF3 enjoys physical dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LZ40 has proportions of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic LZ40 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at the time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the GF3 compared to the LZ40.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the GF3 and LZ40 is 90 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to envision the difference between sensor sizes only by checking a spec sheet. The image below will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the GF3 and LZ40.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The GF3 featuring a bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic LZ40 will give extra detail as a result of its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged GF3 is going to be behind in sensor technology.