Panasonic GM1 vs Sony A3000

Following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic GM1 vs Sony A3000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the A3000 (20MP) is pretty similar but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and A3000 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was unveiled 4 months after the A3000 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 Sony A3000 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise overview of how the GM1 matches up vs the A3000 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 and Sony Alpha A3000. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM1 Gallery and Sony A3000 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera, you are going to need to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM1 provides 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) and the Sony A3000 has proportions of 128mm x 91mm x 85mm (5.0" x 3.6" x 3.3") and a weight of 411 grams (0.91 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic GM1 vs Sony A3000 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the GM1 versus the A3000.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GM1 and A3000 is 93 and 69 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes purely by going over specs. The image here should give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the GM1 and A3000.

All in all, each of these cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The GM1 with its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Sony A3000 will offer you greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively.