Panasonic GF3 vs Sony NEX-C3

Here, we will be matching up the Panasonic GF3 versus Sony NEX-C3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by companies Panasonic and Sony. There is a significant difference between the image resolutions of the GF3 (12MP) and NEX-C3 (16MP) and the GF3 (Four Thirds) and NEX-C3 (APS-C) have totally different sensor measurements.

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The GF3 was announced within a month of the NEX-C3 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick summation of how the GF3 grades versus the NEX-C3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera, you'll have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF3 has external dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs) while the Sony NEX-C3 has sizing of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GF3 versus Sony NEX-C3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose at the time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the GF3 versus the NEX-C3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the GF3 and NEX-C3 is 90 and 91 respectively.

Often, its tough to envision the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reading through a spec sheet. The visual here will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the GF3 and NEX-C3.

As you can see, the two cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The GF3 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony NEX-C3 will give you extra detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures way more aggressively.