Panasonic GF3 vs Pentax VS20

Here is a extended assessment of the Panasonic GF3 versus Pentax VS20, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the GF3 (12MP) and VS20 (16MP) and the GF3 (Four Thirds) and VS20 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor size.

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The GF3 was manufactured 5 months prior to the VS20 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a in-depth comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the GF3 matches up versus the VS20 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Pentax Optio VS20. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera, you should factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF3 has external measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Pentax VS20 has sizing of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") and a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF3 versus Pentax VS20 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the GF3 and the VS20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the GF3 and VS20 is 90 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reviewing specifications. The visual here may offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the GF3 and VS20.

To sum up, both of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GF3 featuring a bigger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Pentax VS20 will offer greater detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots somewhat more aggressively.