Panasonic GF8 vs Samsung NX300M

Below is a extended analysis of the Panasonic GF8 and Samsung NX300M, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Samsung. The resolution of the GF8 (16MP) and the NX300M (20MP) is relatively well matched but the GF8 (Four Thirds) and NX300M (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GF8 was unveiled 3 years later than the NX300M and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the GF8 scores vs the NX300M when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 & Samsung NX300M. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GF8 Gallery & Samsung NX300M Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF8 has got outer measurements of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Samsung NX300M has measurements of 122mm x 64mm x 41mm (4.8" x 2.5" x 1.6") having a weight of 331 grams (0.73 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GF8 and Samsung NX300M in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is a front view size comparison of the GF8 compared to the NX300M.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF8 and NX300M is 90 and 86 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to see the contrast between sensor measurements just by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath may provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the GF8 and NX300M.

As you can see, both of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GF8 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more difficult and the Samsung NX300M will give more detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs more aggressively. The more modern GF8 will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.