Panasonic GF5 vs Sony NEX-3

Below is a extended analysis of the Panasonic GF5 versus Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the GF5 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is very comparable but the GF5 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizing.

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The GF5 was unveiled 23 months later than the NEX-3 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the GF5 grades versus the NEX-3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GF5 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you're planning to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GF5 offers external measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-3 has proportions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF5 versus Sony NEX-3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the GF5 vs the NEX-3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF5 and NEX-3 is 89 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, its hard to see the difference in sensor measurements just by seeing a spec sheet. The graphic below will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the GF5 and NEX-3.

Clearly, each of the cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The GF5 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Sony NEX-3 will provide more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop images much more aggressively. The younger GF5 will have an edge in sensor innovation.