The G3 was a notably lightweight G-series body at 336g when it launched in 2011, pairing a 16MP Live MOS sensor with a fully articulated touchscreen and a 1.44MP viewfinder. There was no IBIS, no 4K, and no wireless connectivity. Its compact size relative to its resolution was a selling point at the time. Today it is a historical curiosity; the used market offers no compelling reason to buy one over later generations. It replaces the Panasonic Lumix G2. It has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix G5. At 336g, this is one of the lightest M43 bodies available, 202g below the M43 average of 538g. Step up to the OM System OM-5 if you want more controls at the cost of 30g extra.
Best for: Everyday and casual photography
Cons
- No in-body image stabilisation
- Contrast-detect AF only, slower on unpredictably moving subjects
- Not weather sealed
Specifications
| Body | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Status | discontinued |
| Released | 2011-06 |
| Weight | 336g |
| Dimensions | 115 × 83.6 × 65.7mm |
| Weather sealed | No |
| Screen | Fully articulated |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Sensor | |
| Description | 16MP Live MOS |
| Megapixels | 16MP |
| Resolution | 4592 × 3448 |
| Viewfinder | |
| EVF | Yes |
| EVF resolution | 1.44MP |
| EVF magnification | 0.7x |
| Stabilisation | |
| IBIS | No |
| Dual IS | No |
| Autofocus | |
| Phase detect | No |
| Subject recognition | No |
| Shooting | |
| Video | |
| 4K | No |
| 4K 60fps | No |
| Log | No |
| Ports & storage | |
| Card slots | 1 |
| Card type | SD UHS-I |
| HDMI | micro |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Mic port | No |
| WiFi | No |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Battery | DMW-BLC12 |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Panasonic Lumix G3 have IBIS?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G3 does not have in-body image stabilisation. You will need a lens with OIS for any stabilisation benefit.
Is the Panasonic Lumix G3 weather sealed?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G3 does not have weather sealing. Take care in rain or dusty conditions.
Does the Panasonic Lumix G3 shoot 4K video?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G3 does not record 4K video.
Does the Panasonic Lumix G3 have phase-detect autofocus?
No. The Panasonic Lumix G3 uses contrast-detect autofocus. It is slower to lock on to moving subjects than phase-detect systems.
What card does the Panasonic Lumix G3 use?
The Panasonic Lumix G3 has 1 card slot and accepts SD UHS-I cards.
How much does the Panasonic Lumix G3 weigh?
The Panasonic Lumix G3 weighs 336g (body only, with battery and card).
Is the Panasonic Lumix G3 still worth buying?
The Panasonic Lumix G3 has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix G5. The newer model improves on AF performance, sensor, and video specs. At a reduced second-hand price the Panasonic Lumix G3 remains a capable body, but the Panasonic Lumix G5 is the better long-term buy if the budget allows.