Panasonic GF3 vs Sony A500

Here is a complete assessment of the Panasonic GF3 and Sony A500, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the GF3 (12MP) and the A500 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the GF3 (Four Thirds) and A500 (APS-C) offer different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The GF3 was unveiled 24 months later than the A500 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a quick view of how the GF3 scores versus the A500 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A500. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Sony A500 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic GF3 offers exterior measurements 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 Sony A500 has specifications of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") and a weight of 630 grams (1.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF3 and Sony A500 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the GF3 against the A500.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the GF3 and A500 is 90 and 63 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing merely by checking technical specs. The photograph underneath will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the GF3 and A500.

As you have seen, each of these cameras provide the same resolution albeit different sensor sizing. The GF3 has got the tinier sensor which should make getting shallower depth of field more difficult. The more recent GF3 should have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.