Panasonic GX1 vs Panasonic SZ3

Lets look more closely at the Panasonic GX1 vs Panasonic SZ3, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are designed by Panasonic. The resolution of the GX1 (16MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the GX1 (Four Thirds) and SZ3 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The GX1 was launched 10 months earlier than the SZ3 and they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a complete comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the GX1 scores against the SZ3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic GX1 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to travel with your camera, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GX1 features outer dimensions of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") having a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ3 has dimensions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GX1 vs Panasonic SZ3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have at that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the GX1 compared to the SZ3.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the GX1 and SZ3 is 87 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions only by looking at specs. The image underneath will help give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the GX1 and SZ3.

All in all, each of the cameras come with the identical resolution but not the same sensor dimensions. The GX1 includes the larger sensor which is going to make achieving shallow DOF less difficult. The more aged GX1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.