Alternative to 4/3 camera without compromising quality

Question

I have a Panasonic DMC L1 (the first 4/3 camera) with Leica zoom lens and an Olympus fixed focal length lens. The Leica lens has developed a problem and the insurance cant repair it. They are going to offer me an alternative ..likely to be a camera within £700. I suspect they will offer me the Lumix G series. I quite liked the micro 4/3 cameras as they are smaller. However, I suspect the picture quality, esp night time without the excellent bounce flash on L1 would be not as good. I also liked the controls on the L1.

Should I go for a micro 4/3 or should I go for the 4/3 like G series?

Answer

The image quality of a 4/3 and Micro Four-Thirds camera is exactly the same since the sensors are the same size. Therefore you can expect better image quality from newer 3/4 or Micro 4/3 cameras due to technological improvements.

It is normal that there will be differences when changing models and even though what you are getting will be some kind of upgrade, there will be some things you will like less.

One improvement over previous generations is that newer cameras focus much faster. So, at this point, without knowing much about your photography style, all I can say is that you choose the right model considering your needs. If you like using direct controls than you should look at advanced models and if you are more comfortable using the camera at eye-level, so you should look at the models with a built EVF. Finally you can always get a 4/3 DSLR from like the Olympus E-5.

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