Panasonic GX850 vs Sony NEX-3

Lets look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic GX850 and Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the GX850 (16MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is relatively comparable but the GX850 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The GX850 was manufactured 6 years after the NEX-3 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a in depth comparison, here is a brief view of how the GX850 matches up versus the NEX-3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850 & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX850 Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GX850 comes with outer measurements of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has dimensions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic GX850 and Sony NEX-3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the GX850 and the NEX-3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GX850 and NEX-3 is 90 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to see the contrast in sensor sizes only by going through technical specs. The picture underneath may provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the GX850 and NEX-3.

As you have seen, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The GX850 due to its smaller sensor will make getting bokeh more difficult and the Panasonic GX850 will show extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs more aggressively. The more modern GX850 will have an edge with regard to sensor technology.