Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic SZ3

Its time to look a bit more closely at the Panasonic GM1 and Panasonic SZ3, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and SZ3 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was revealed 12 months after the SZ3 which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the GM1 scores against the SZ3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GM1 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry around your camera often, you have to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GM1 comes with external dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ3 has measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GM1 and Panasonic SZ3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view size comparison of the GM1 vs the SZ3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the GM1 and SZ3 is 93 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizes just by looking at specs. The image here will give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the GM1 and SZ3.

All in all, the 2 cameras posses the exact same MP albeit not the same sensor sizes. The GM1 has got the bigger sensor which is going to make getting shallow DOF simpler. The fresher GM1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.