Panasonic GF3 vs Sony NEX-3

Below is a detailed analysis of the Panasonic GF3 versus Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the GF3 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is very comparable but the GF3 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) provide different sensor size.

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The GF3 was released 15 months later than the NEX-3 making them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summary of how the GF3 scores versus the NEX-3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic GF3 Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GF3 provides outside 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) and the Sony NEX-3 has proportions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GF3 versus Sony NEX-3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the GF3 and the NEX-3.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the GF3 and NEX-3 is 90 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to picture the difference in sensor measurements simply by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GF3 and NEX-3.

Clearly, both of those cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GF3 because of its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Sony NEX-3 will show extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The newer GF3 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.