Panasonic GF8 vs Sony a3500

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Panasonic GF8 versus Sony a3500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the GF8 (16MP) and the a3500 (20MP) is fairly similar but the GF8 (Four Thirds) and a3500 (APS-C) possess different sensor sizing.

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The GF8 was announced 24 months later than the a3500 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony a3500 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a complete comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the GF8 matches up versus the a3500 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 & Sony Alpha a3500. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GF8 Gallery & Sony a3500 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF8 features physical dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Sony a3500 has dimensions of 128mm x 91mm x 85mm (5.0" x 3.6" x 3.3") and a weight of 411 grams (0.91 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GF8 versus Sony a3500 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have at that moment. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the GF8 and the a3500.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the GF8 and a3500 is 90 and 69 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading a spec sheet. The photograph here will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the GF8 and a3500.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GF8 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh harder and the Sony a3500 will offer extra detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The younger GF8 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.