Panasonic GF8 vs Panasonic SZ3

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic GF8 and Panasonic SZ3, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both manufactured by Panasonic. The resolution of the GF8 (16MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is very similar but the GF8 (Four Thirds) and SZ3 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The GF8 was launched 3 years after the SZ3 which is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before going into a full comparison, here is a short overview of how the GF8 matches up versus the SZ3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic GF8 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF8 offers exterior dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ3 has dimensions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF8 and Panasonic SZ3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the GF8 vs the SZ3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF8 and SZ3 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading a spec sheet. The picture here will provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the GF8 and SZ3.

As you can see, both of the cameras feature the identical megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The GF8 comes with the larger sensor which will make getting shallower DOF easier. The more modern GF8 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.