Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic S3

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic S3, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is fairly similar but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and S3 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizing.

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The GM1 was revealed 2 years later than the S3 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the GM1 grades vs the S3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GM1 Gallery & Panasonic S3 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera often, you should consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM1 comes with physical dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Panasonic S3 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic S3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have at that moment. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the GM1 against the S3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the GM1 and S3 is 93 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by reviewing technical specs. The graphic underneath will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the GM1 and S3.

As you can tell, the two cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GM1 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic GM1 will offer more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The younger GM1 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.