Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Olympus E-PL1s and Panasonic GF3 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Olympus E-PL1s has external dimensions of 115 x 72 x 42 mm (4.53 x 2.83 x 1.65″) and weighs 334 g (0.74 lb / 11.78 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic GF3 has external dimensions of 108 x 67 x 32 mm (4.25 x 2.64 x 1.26″) and weighs 264 g (0.58 lb / 9.31 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL1s and the Panasonic GF3. Panasonic GF3 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 7mm narrower, 5mm shorter and 10mm thinner than Olympus E-PL1s.
Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL1s and the Panasonic GF3 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Here is the back view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL1s and Panasonic GF3.
Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL1s and the Panasonic GF3 Size and Weight - Back View
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic GF3 is significantly lighter (70g ) than the Olympus E-PL1s which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Also keep in mind that body weight is not the only deciding factor when comparing two interchangeable camera bodies, you also have to take into account the lenses that you will be using with these bodies. Since both Olympus E-PL1s and Panasonic GF3 have the same Micro Four Thirds lens mount and Four Thirds sized sensors, lenses will not be a differentiator on total size of the system.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Olympus PEN E-PL1s nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Mirrorless Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic GF3's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Olympus E-PL1s's 2.7 screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.
