Panasonic GX1 vs Panasonic S3

The following is a detailed comparison of the Panasonic GX1 versus Panasonic S3, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both offered by Panasonic. The image resolution of the GX1 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is very comparable but the GX1 (Four Thirds) and S3 (1/2.3") boast different sensor dimensions.

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The GX1 was revealed 14 months after the S3 making them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a full comparison, here is a brief summary of how the GX1 grades against the S3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GX1 Gallery & Panasonic S3 Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic GX1 comes with outside dimensions of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs) while the Panasonic S3 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GX1 versus Panasonic S3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at the time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the GX1 and the S3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the GX1 and S3 is 87 and 96 respectively.

Generally, its difficult to picture the gap in sensor dimensions just by checking out specs. The picture underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the GX1 and S3.

All in all, the two cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The GX1 having a larger sensor is going to make getting bokeh easier and the Panasonic GX1 will provide extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics way more aggressively. The younger GX1 provides a benefit in sensor technology.