Panasonic GX1 vs Sony NEX-3

Following is a in depth assessment of the Panasonic GX1 and Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the GX1 (16MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is very comparable but the GX1 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The GX1 was introduced 21 months after the NEX-3 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief view of how the GX1 scores against the NEX-3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX1 Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic GX1 provides outer dimensions of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") along with a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has specifications of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GX1 and Sony NEX-3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the GX1 vs the NEX-3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the GX1 and NEX-3 is 87 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to see the difference in sensor sizes just by going through specs. The pic here should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the GX1 and NEX-3.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The GX1 having a smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic GX1 will show more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The more recent GX1 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.