Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic SZ8

Lets look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic SZ8, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are created by Panasonic. There is a huge difference among the image resolutions of the GF3 (12MP) and SZ8 (16MP) and the GF3 (Four Thirds) and SZ8 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The GF3 was unveiled 3 years before the SZ8 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise overview of how the GF3 scores vs the SZ8 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to travel with your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GF3 has physical dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ8 has proportions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic SZ8 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is the front view scale comparison of the GF3 against the SZ8.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the GF3 and SZ8 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to see the gap in sensor dimensions purely by going through specs. The image below might provide you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF3 and SZ8.

All in all, the 2 cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The GF3 having a bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic SZ8 will provide extra detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures much more aggressively. The more aged GF3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.