Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZR3

Below is a in depth review of the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZR3, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are built by Panasonic. The resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is pretty similar but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and ZR3 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was announced 3 years later than the ZR3 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a short view of how the GM1 grades against the ZR3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM1 Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic GM1 comes with outside measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") along with a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Panasonic ZR3 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZR3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the GM1 against the ZR3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the GM1 and ZR3 is 93 and 94 respectively.

Often, its tough to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements simply by reading specs. The photograph underneath should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GM1 and ZR3.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The GM1 having a bigger sensor will make getting bokeh easier and the Panasonic GM1 will offer you more detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The younger GM1 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.