The GF3 was the smallest and lightest G-series body at the time of its 2011 launch, weighing just 225g with a 12.1MP Live MOS sensor and a fixed touchscreen. It removed the physical dials almost entirely in favor of touch operation. No viewfinder, no IBIS, no 4K, no Wi-Fi. The size was its main selling point then, and the only reason to seek one out now is if you want the smallest possible M43 body regardless of capability. It replaces the Panasonic Lumix GF2. It has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GF5. At 225g, this is one of the lightest M43 bodies available, 313g below the M43 average of 538g. Step up to the Panasonic Lumix G100D if you want more controls at the cost of 108g 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 | 2011-07 |
| Weight | 225g |
| Dimensions | 108.6 × 58.3 × 32.5mm |
| Weather sealed | No |
| Screen | Fixed |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Sensor | |
| Description | 12.1MP Live MOS |
| Megapixels | 12.1MP |
| Resolution | 4000 × 3000 |
| Viewfinder | |
| EVF | No |
| 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-BLG10 |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Panasonic Lumix GF3 have IBIS?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF3 does not have in-body image stabilisation. You will need a lens with OIS for any stabilisation benefit.
Is the Panasonic Lumix GF3 weather sealed?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF3 does not have weather sealing. Take care in rain or dusty conditions.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GF3 shoot 4K video?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF3 does not record 4K video.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GF3 have phase-detect autofocus?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GF3 uses contrast-detect autofocus. It is slower to lock on to moving subjects than phase-detect systems.
What card does the Panasonic Lumix GF3 use?
The Panasonic Lumix GF3 has 1 card slot and accepts SD UHS-I cards.
How much does the Panasonic Lumix GF3 weigh?
The Panasonic Lumix GF3 weighs 225g (body only, with battery and card).
Is the Panasonic Lumix GF3 still worth buying?
The Panasonic Lumix GF3 has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GF5. The newer model improves on AF performance, sensor, and video specs. At a reduced second-hand price the Panasonic Lumix GF3 remains a capable body, but the Panasonic Lumix GF5 is the better long-term buy if the budget allows.