Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 vs Lumix DMC G5 Comparison
Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
Panasonic Lumix DMC G5
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Brand | Panasonic | Panasonic | |
Model | Lumix DMC G3 | Lumix DMC G5 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2011 | 2012 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | May 12, 2011 | July 18, 2012 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 takes the lead with a score of 47/100, compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3‘s 42/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless cameras, released in 2011 and 2012, with launch prices of $599 and $650, respectively.
The G5 outshines the G3 with a higher score, reflecting its better performance and features. However, the G3 has its advantages, being lighter at 336g compared to the G5’s 396g and slightly smaller in size (115 x 84 x 47mm) than the G5 (120 x 83 x 71mm).
Taking all points into consideration, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 is the superior choice due to its higher score, but the G3 may be preferred by those seeking a lighter and more compact camera.
Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 vs Lumix DMC G5 Overview and Optics
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, scoring 46 out of 100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 scores 42. Both cameras share some common specifications, including 16-megapixel resolution, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization.
The G5 outperforms the G3 in several aspects. It has a slightly higher megapixel count at 16.05, which contributes to better image resolution. The G5 also has a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second, compared to the G3’s 4 frames per second, allowing for better capture of fast-moving subjects. The G5’s CMOS sensor and Venus Engine VII FHD processor give it a higher DXOMARK score of 61, compared to the G3’s Live MOS sensor and Venus Engine FHD processor with a DXOMARK score of 56. This difference results in improved image quality, color depth, and low-light performance for the G5.
On the other hand, the G3 does not have any significant advantages over the G5 in terms of optics. Both cameras have the same sensor size and lens mount, as well as the absence of image stabilization. Therefore, it is clear that the G5 is the better camera in this comparison.
Taking into account the differences in specifications and performance, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 is the superior choice for those seeking better optics. With its marginally higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and improved sensor and processor, the G5 delivers better image quality and performance than the G3.
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Optics
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G5
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP | 16.05 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. | 4592 x 3448 px | 4608 x 3456 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | Live MOS | CMOS | |
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. | 13 x 17.3 mm | 13 x 17.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Micro Four Thirds | 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. | 4 fps | 6 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. | Micro 4/3 | 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. | Venus Engine FHD | Venus Engine VII 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. |  4:3 | 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. | 6,400 | 12,800 | |
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. | 6400 | 12800 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 60 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/ 4000 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. | 23 | 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. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 1,440,000 dots | 1,440,000 dots |
Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 vs Lumix DMC G5 Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 both have a video score of 56/100, indicating that they have similar video capabilities. Both cameras offer Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 and a maximum frame rate of 60fps. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite their identical scores, there are differences in their video capabilities. The G5 has an improved video codec, which provides better video compression and quality. This means that the G5’s videos will have less noise and artifacts, resulting in clearer and more detailed footage. Furthermore, the G5 has a better autofocus system for video, allowing for smoother and more accurate focus transitions while recording. These improvements make the G5 the better option for those looking for superior video quality and performance.
On the other hand, the G3 has a slightly smaller and lighter body, making it more portable and easier to carry around. This could be an advantage for those who prioritize portability over video quality. However, this advantage is minor compared to the improvements offered by the G5.
Taking into account the differences in video quality and performance, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 is the superior choice for those seeking better video capabilities. The G3 may be more portable, but its video performance is not as strong as the G5’s. Therefore, for users who prioritize video quality and performance, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 is the recommended option.
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Video
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G5
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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. |  Full HD | 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. | 1920 x 1080 px | 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. | 60 p | 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. | AVCHD, Motion JPEG | AVCHD, MP4 |
Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 vs Lumix DMC G5 Features and Benefits
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 wins in the features category with a score of 54/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 trails behind with a score of 49/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen, and the absence of GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth.
The G5 surpasses the G3 with a higher screen resolution of 920,000 dots, compared to the G3’s 460,000 dots. This higher resolution allows for better image preview and easier menu navigation on the G5, giving it an edge over the G3 in terms of display quality.
Although the G3 comes up short in screen resolution, it is not entirely worse than the G5. Both cameras have the same screen size, touchscreen, and flip screen features. The absence of GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth in both models signifies that neither camera excels in connectivity options.
Upon examining each point, it is evident that the G5’s higher screen resolution gives it an advantage over the G3 in display quality. However, the G3 is on par with the G5 in other aspects, such as screen size and the presence of a touchscreen and flip screen. The lack of connectivity options in both cameras is a notable drawback.
Taking all factors into account, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 emerges as the better camera in terms of features, primarily due to its higher screen resolution. Nonetheless, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 remains a viable option for those who prioritize other aspects beyond display quality.
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Features
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G5
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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 | TFT 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 |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 460,000 dots | 920,000 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. |  | | |
Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 vs Lumix DMC G5 Storage and Battery
The Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 outperforms the DMC G3 in storage and battery with a score of 21/100 compared to the G3’s 16/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including a single memory card slot and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The DMC G5’s advantage lies in its battery life, providing 320 shots per charge, while the DMC G3 only delivers 270 shots. This difference makes the G5 more suitable for extended shooting sessions. The G5 uses a DMW-BLC12 battery, while the G3 utilizes a DMW-BLD10 battery type.
Despite the G3’s lower score, it doesn’t offer any advantages over the G5 in storage and battery. Therefore, the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5 is the better choice for photographers prioritizing longer battery life and reliable storage options.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | DMW-BLD10 | DMW-BLC12 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 270 shots | 320 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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 bits | 21.4 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.' | 10.6 EVs | 11.6 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' | 667 | 618 |
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Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G5
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 vs Lumix DMC G5 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC G5:
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User Scores
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G3
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Panasonic Lumix DMC G5
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B&H photo video |
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