Panasonic GH2 vs Panasonic SZ3

In this write-up, we are matching up the Panasonic GH2 vs Panasonic SZ3, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GH2 (16MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is fairly similar but the GH2 (Four Thirds) and SZ3 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor measurements.

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The GH2 was launched 21 months before the SZ3 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the GH2 scores against the SZ3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic GH2 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to lug around your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GH2 has got external dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ3 has proportions 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 GH2 vs Panasonic SZ3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the GH2 and the SZ3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the GH2 and SZ3 is 70 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor measurements merely by going over technical specs. The graphic here might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the GH2 and SZ3.

As you have seen, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact resolution but not the same sensor measurements. The GH2 uses the larger sensor which will make getting shallow depth of field less difficult. The older GH2 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.