Panasonic GF3 vs Sony H20

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Panasonic GF3 and Sony H20, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the GF3 (12MP) and the H20 (10MP) is relatively well matched but the GF3 (Four Thirds) and H20 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The GF3 was revealed 2 years after the H20 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony H20 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summary of how the GF3 matches up versus the H20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H20. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Sony H20 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF3 offers physical 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) whilst the Sony H20 has sizing of 107mm x 69mm x 47mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.9") and a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GF3 and Sony H20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the GF3 and the H20.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the GF3 and H20 is 90 and 87 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to envision the difference between sensor sizes only by looking at specs. The picture here will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the GF3 and H20.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The GF3 using its bigger sensor will make getting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic GF3 will resolve greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The fresher GF3 will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.