Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic SZ3

On this page, we will be analyzing the Panasonic GF3 and Panasonic SZ3, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both offered by Panasonic. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the GF3 (12MP) and SZ3 (16MP) and the GF3 (Four Thirds) and SZ3 (1/2.3") boast different sensor size.

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The GF3 was manufactured 17 months before the SZ3 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a thorough comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the GF3 grades vs the SZ3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF3 features outside dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ3 has dimensions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GF3 and Panasonic SZ3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have at that time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the GF3 vs the SZ3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the GF3 and SZ3 is 90 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizing merely by going over a spec sheet. The visual underneath should provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF3 and SZ3.

As you can see, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GF3 because of its bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic SZ3 will deliver greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots more aggressively. The older GF3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.