Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic ZR1

On this page, we will be analyzing the Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic ZR1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both created by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GF3 (12MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the GF3 (Four Thirds) and ZR1 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The GF3 was brought out 2 years after the ZR1 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a in depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the GF3 grades against the ZR1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF3 features exterior 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) while the Panasonic ZR1 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic ZR1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the GF3 compared to the ZR1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the GF3 and ZR1 is 90 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizes simply by looking at specifications. The picture here may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the GF3 and ZR1.

To sum up, each of these cameras have the same resolution albeit not the same sensor sizes. The GF3 uses the bigger sensor which should make obtaining shallower DOF less difficult. The more modern GF3 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.