Panasonic GM1 vs Panasonic ZS3

Below is a detailed comparison of the Panasonic GM1 and Panasonic ZS3, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both offered by Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the GM1 (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) and the GM1 (Four Thirds) and ZS3 (1/2.3") provide different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was unveiled 4 years later than the ZS3 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick summation of how the GM1 matches up versus the ZS3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GM1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM1 has outside dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic GM1 and Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the GM1 against the ZS3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the GM1 and ZS3 is 93 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to picture the contrast in sensor measurements merely by checking out a spec sheet. The visual here will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the GM1 and ZS3.

As you can see, both cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The GM1 having a bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic GM1 will provide greater detail having an extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more recent GM1 provides an edge with regard to sensor tech.