CameraReview

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6
Panasonic
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6
Mirrorless · 16.05 MP · Micro Four Thirds · Full HD video
48
SCORE
$218.64
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3
Panasonic
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3
Mirrorless · 16.05 MP · Micro Four Thirds · Full HD video
53
SCORE
$1,095.94
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20132012
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
24/04/201317/09/2012
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 122 x 85 x 71 mm133 x 93 x 82 mm
Camera weight 390 g550 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16.05 MP05016.05 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4608 x 34564608 x 3456
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 17.313 x 17.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Micro Four ThirdsMicro Four Thirds
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
7 fps04520 fps045
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 4/3Micro 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 IXVenus 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.
4:34:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1603020020030200
Max ISO
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.
128003003280000128003003280000
Min 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.
1603020012530200
Max 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.
256003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
120440806044080
Max 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.
400080032000400080032000
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.
230300230300
In-body stabilisation
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 144000009900000174400009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
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 10801920 x 1080
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 fps60 fps
Timelapse 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 MP4 (Audio format AAC 2ch)MOV, MPEG
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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 LCDOLED
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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
103600011500015000006140001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type DMW-BLC12Li-ion, 1600 mAh
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
340 shots1505000540 shots1505000
USB charging

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 with a score of 53/100 compared to the G6’s 48/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models, announced in 2012 (GH3) and 2013 (G6). The GH3 is superior due to its higher launch price of $1300 as opposed to the G6’s $750, indicating a more advanced camera.

However, the G6 has its advantages with a lighter weight of 390g (0.86lbs) and smaller dimensions (122 x 85 x 71mm) compared to the GH3’s 550g (1.21lbs) and 133 x 93 x 82mm. This makes the G6 more portable and convenient for on-the-go photography.

Taking these factors into account, the GH3 offers better overall performance, while the G6 provides a more compact and lightweight option for photographers who prioritize portability.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 vs Lumix DMC-GH3 Overview and Optics

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 in terms of optics, scoring 50/100 compared to the G6’s 47/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 16.05 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.

The GH3 surpasses the G6 with its impressive shooting speed of 20, significantly faster than the G6’s 7. This advantage allows the GH3 to capture rapid action and fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the GH3’s sensor receives a higher DXOMARK score of 71, compared to the G6’s 61. This higher score signifies that the GH3’s sensor provides better image quality and improved low-light performance.

Despite its lower overall score, the G6 does have a more advanced processor, the Venus Engine IX, compared to the GH3’s Venus Engine VII FHD. This updated processor contributes to the G6’s faster image processing and enhanced noise reduction capabilities. However, this advantage does not outweigh the GH3’s superior shooting speed and sensor performance.

Considering the differences in optics, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 emerges as the better camera due to its faster shooting speed and higher quality sensor. While the G6 has a more advanced processor, it is not sufficient to surpass the GH3’s advantages. Therefore, the GH3 is the preferable choice for photographers seeking superior performance in capturing fast-moving subjects and producing high-quality images.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 vs Lumix DMC-GH3 Video Performance

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 emerges as the winner in video capabilities with a video score of 70/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 scores 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications: they offer Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 and a maximum video frame rate of 60fps.

The DMC-GH3 outperforms the DMC-G6 mainly due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software, making it more convenient and versatile for videographers. The higher video score of the DMC-GH3 reflects its enhanced capabilities and performance in this area.

On the other hand, the DMC-G6 does not offer any significant advantages over the DMC-GH3 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras have the same maximum resolution, dimensions, and frame rate, making their performance in these aspects virtually identical.

Considering the features and performance of both cameras, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 stands out as the superior choice for videographers due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature makes it a more versatile and convenient option for those looking to capture stunning time-lapse videos. Meanwhile, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6, although not offering any notable advantages in video capabilities, remains a decent option for those who may not require time-lapse functionality in their video projects.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 vs Lumix DMC-GH3 Features and Benefits

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 in feature score, with a 65/100 compared to the G6’s 57/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, absence of GPS, presence of WIFI, and no bluetooth connectivity.

The GH3’s higher feature score signifies its superiority in certain aspects. The GH3 surpasses the G6 in screen resolution, offering 614,000 dots compared to the G6’s 1,036,000 dots. This means that the GH3 provides a clearer and sharper display, allowing users to review their images and videos with more precision.

On the other hand, the G6 does have some advantages despite its lower feature score. The G6’s touchscreen and flip screen capabilities are identical to the GH3’s, making it equally convenient for users who value these features. Additionally, the G6’s lower feature score does not necessarily indicate a significant difference in overall performance, as both cameras share many key specifications.

In comparing the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 and DMC-GH3, it is evident that the GH3 is superior in terms of screen resolution, resulting in a higher feature score. However, the G6 does not fall far behind, as it shares many important specifications with the GH3. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, with the GH3 offering a higher screen resolution and the G6 being a close contender with similar features.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 vs Lumix DMC-GH3 Storage and Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 27/100, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 scores 21/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The GH3 has a clear advantage in battery life, providing 540 shots compared to the G6’s 340 shots. This longer battery life is due to the GH3’s Li-ion, 1600mAh battery. The G6 uses a DMW-BLC12 battery, which contributes to its shorter battery life.

The G6 does not have any notable advantages over the GH3 in the storage and battery category. With a higher score and longer battery life, the GH3 is the better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery performance.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 vs Lumix DMC-GH3 – Our Verdict

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 vs Lumix DMC-GH3 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3: