Panasonic GF3 vs Panasonic ZS1

Below, we will be evaluating the Panasonic GF3 versus Panasonic ZS1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the GF3 (12MP) and the ZS1 (10MP) is relatively close but the GF3 (Four Thirds) and ZS1 (1/2.5") come with different sensor dimensions.

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The GF3 was launched 2 years after the ZS1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short summation of how the GF3 matches up versus the ZS1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic GF3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF3 comes with outer measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS1 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF3 versus Panasonic ZS1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the GF3 and the ZS1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the GF3 and ZS1 is 90 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to picture the gap in sensor sizes simply by viewing technical specs. The pic underneath should provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the GF3 and ZS1.

As you can tell, both cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The GF3 featuring a bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic GF3 will render extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs much more aggressively. The more recent GF3 should have an edge in sensor tech.