Leica M8 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 Comparison
Leica M8
Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Brand | Leica | Panasonic | |
Model | M8 | Lumix DMC G3 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2006 | 2011 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 14, 2006 | May 12, 2011 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 outperforms the Leica M8 with a score of 42/100 compared to the M8’s 35/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2006 and 2011, respectively. The M8 has a launch price of $5495, while the G3 is priced at $599.
Both cameras share similarities in their mirrorless design. However, the G3 has a higher score due to its advantages in size and weight. The G3 measures 115 x 84 x 47mm and weighs 336g, making it more compact and lightweight than the M8, which measures 139 x 80 x 37mm and weighs 591g.
Despite its lower score, the Leica M8 does have some benefits, such as its premium build quality and a higher launch price, which may appeal to professional photographers or collectors.
Taking all factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 is the better choice for those seeking a compact and lightweight camera, while the Leica M8 may be more suitable for those who prioritize build quality and prestige.
Leica M8 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 Overview and Optics
The Leica M8 wins the optics comparison with a score of 43/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 scores 42/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the absence of image stabilization and the same lens mount type.
The Leica M8 has a 10.3-megapixel CCD sensor, an APS-H sensor size, and a DXOMARK score of 59 for its sensor. The M8’s larger sensor size contributes to its better image quality. Additionally, the Leica M8 features a Maestro II processor and a 3:2 aspect ratio, which may produce more pleasing images for certain photographers.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 has a higher megapixel count at 16, a faster shooting speed of 4 frames per second, and a Live MOS sensor. The G3’s higher megapixel count allows for more detailed images, and its faster shooting speed is advantageous for capturing fast-moving subjects. However, the G3 has a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor size and a lower DXOMARK score of 56 for its sensor. The G3 also has a Venus Engine FHD processor and a 4:3 aspect ratio.
Despite the Leica M8’s higher score, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 has its own advantages in terms of megapixels and shooting speed. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the photographer’s preferences and needs. The Leica M8 may be more suitable for those prioritizing image quality, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 may be better for photographers who require faster shooting speeds and higher-resolution images.
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Optics
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Leica M8
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 10.3 MP | 16 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 3936 x 2630 px | 4592 x 3448 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CCD | Live MOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 18 x 27 mm | 13 x 17.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-H |  Micro Four Thirds | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 2 fps | 4 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Leica M | Micro 4/3 | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Maestro II | Venus Engine FHD | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 |  4:3 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 160 | 160 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 2,500 | 6,400 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 160 | 160 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 2500 | 6400 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 8 s | 60 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 0 | 23 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (rangefinder) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 1,440,000 dots |
Leica M8 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 Video Performance
When examining the video capabilities of the Leica M8 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3, it is important to note that the Leica M8 does not have any video functionality. This means that for those looking for a camera with video recording capabilities, the Leica M8 would not be a suitable option. On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 offers video recording features that may appeal to users interested in capturing moving images.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 has a video score of 56 out of 100. This camera can record Full HD video with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080, providing clear and detailed footage. Additionally, the Lumix DMC G3 can capture video at a maximum frame rate of 60fps, ensuring smooth and seamless motion in recorded video. However, it is worth mentioning that the camera does not have built-in time-lapse functionality.
Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, it is clear that the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 is the better choice for those prioritizing video recording features. The Leica M8, lacking video functionality, may not meet the needs of users who require video capabilities in their camera. Ultimately, potential buyers should consider their specific needs and preferences when deciding between these two cameras.
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Video
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Leica M8
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  |  | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. | N/A |  Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | N/A | 1920 x 1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | N/A | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | N/A | AVCHD, Motion JPEG |
Leica M8 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 outperforms the Leica M8 in features with a score of 49/100, a significant 32 points higher than the Leica M8’s 17/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the absence of GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Lumix G3 surpasses the Leica M8 in several aspects. First, its screen size measures 3 inches, compared to the M8’s 2.5 inches, providing a larger display for better image review and composition. Second, the G3 boasts a higher screen resolution of 460,000 dots, doubling the M8’s 230,000 dots for a sharper and clearer display. Additionally, the G3 features a touchscreen for more convenient and intuitive control, while the M8 lacks this functionality. Finally, the G3 offers a flip screen, enabling users to capture images from various angles and facilitating self-portraits, a feature absent in the M8.
Although the Leica M8 trails in features, it may still appeal to photographers who prefer a camera with a more straightforward interface and fewer bells and whistles. The M8’s simpler design could be an advantage for those who prioritize ease of use and a more traditional photography experience.
Considering these points, the Lumix G3 emerges as the superior camera in terms of features, offering a larger, higher-resolution screen, touchscreen capabilities, and a flip screen. The Leica M8, on the other hand, may suit photographers seeking a minimalistic, no-frills approach to capturing images. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the individual’s preferences and priorities.
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Features
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | LCD | TFT LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  2.5" |  3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 230,000 dots | 460,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Leica M8 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 Storage and Battery
The Leica M8 emerges as the winner in the storage and battery comparison, scoring 29 points, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 scores 16 points. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD and SDHC memory cards. Neither camera supports USB charging.
The Leica M8 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 in battery life, offering 550 shots per charge compared to the G3’s 270 shots. This longer battery life makes the M8 more suitable for extended shooting sessions. The M8 uses a BP-SCL1 battery, while the G3 uses a DMW-BLD10 battery.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 has a slight advantage in storage flexibility, as it accepts SDXC memory cards in addition to SD and SDHC cards. This allows for larger storage capacity and faster transfer speeds.
Considering both storage and battery performance, the Leica M8 is the better choice due to its longer battery life. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 offers a small advantage in storage options with the compatibility of SDXC cards.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BP-SCL1 | DMW-BLD10 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 550 shots | 270 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Leica M8
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 21.1 bits | 21 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 11.3 EVs | 10.6 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 663 | 667 |
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Scores
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Leica M8
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Leica M8 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Leica M8 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3:
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User Scores
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Leica M8
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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B&H photo video |
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