I too paid (double) for my G3 and had/have no regrets. They are quality cams and are just an amazing amount of quality for the price of a lower end compact (granted these don’t have a lens included, but hey, there are economical options for these as well). Honestly, I actually like the form factor of the G3 better personally. The tilt/swivel LCD is also something I miss greatly. Really the bulk of the EVF is the only drawback with the GX1 measuring in smaller than the GF1 is/was, and with the 14mm or 20mm pancake is just tiny compared to the image quality they are capable of producing. Really cool times to be a photo-geek.

t

Personally, I don’t feel the G5 is twice the camera that the G3 is (or even bordering on close to that). It has the rocker switch to engage the zoom function for the power zoom lenses which could be cool (I don’t own or use any of the PZ lenses), but it has the same sensor, I believe one generation newer in the processor, and the specs otherwise are pretty similar. I’d imagine the touch screen is a little more responsive and of course the body is shaped with a larger grip which could be both great for handling, but also adds bulk. If you can, get both in your hands, but for me, at the current prices, I’d go G3 all day, and then again tomorrow Not sure what the current deals are in the UK, but right now, both the GX1 and G3 are $250, so, if that stands over there, you could feasibly get both those cameras for about the same price as the G5… Just a thought

I hope to acquire a GH3 sometime in the future as I think it provides, far and away, the most functional body for the system and can really see it as the first body that I could supplant my DSLR’s with as far as work is concerned. You’re right though, for the money, it’s a steal for the GX1 (or the G3 IMO!)

Cheers,

Tyson

I think the upgrade would not only be a noticeable one quality wise as the newer sensor made a couple big steps forward, but the fact that you can pretty much make a straight swap would be a no brainer if you liked the idea of the G3. If I were you, I’d try to hold onto the 14mm pancake. I know it may seem a little redundant with the 14-42pz, but it is one of the best examples of what the system is capable of regarding size and weight reduction, quality optics and even on the G3, makes for a just about pocketable combo. If it is the only way to sell off the GF2, and you feel it is the weak link in your lens lineup, go for it, but I’m a fan of trying to hold onto optics, or at least optics I like. They hold their value far longer than cameras do, and in that way are a better “investment” as it were.

I won’t spend your money for you, but GO FOR IT! I can’t see a scenario where you’d be giving anything up other than a slight decrease in pocketability all while gaining the tilt swivel screen, newer sensor, far better EVF, etc…

Cheers and enjoy!

t