Thread: G-Series sensor size limits

Are there inherent limitations to the MFT design that prevent future versions with larger sensors? In other words, could there someday be a GX model that would have a 1.5 crop factor sensor (or even 1.0) that could use the existing Lumix lenses?

The limits are defined in the specifications of mFT. In other words: A larger sensor isn't within the specs and therefore no mFT.

MFT doesn't have crop factor (or has a crop factor of 1). Any camera with a bigger sensor would need new lenses (or lenses for already existing bigger formats), or use current MTF lenses using a smaller part of the sensor (like the DX crop mode in some Nikons). Anyway... I don't see the point in releasing a bigger sensor. Current size has pros and cons, just like other sizes. IMHO it's a matter of buying what better fits one's needs.

By definition the MFT format is fixed to 4/3-sized sensors (micro four-thirds...), and it specifies the mount dimensions and functionality. Larger mirrorless sensors would take on different mount specifications (i.e. NEX or Samsung-like mounts). Clearly it's possible to design larger-sensor mirrorless cameras, but I think Panasonic and Olympus are committed to this sensor size for the moment. The mount does look like mechanically it could fit a larger sensor, so I would think it's theoretically possible to shove a larger sensor in the MFT opening, but the lenses would definitely have to be re-designed, and it would have to be called something else (micro APS-C perhaps?).

Thanks for the responsive comments. I am very well satisfied with my G-series camera and its lenses and the mft sensor. Just curious which way the company might move for future products.

My understanding is that the close proximity of the sensor to the lens gives these cameras their distinctive bokeh qualities. Or maybe I should say lack of bokeh qualities because even with the 20 f1.7 wide open you don't get quite the same ultra thin DOF and blown out background as you would with a larger DSLR. So I would think a sensor that was increased in size would still have the same DOF qualities or perhaps even worse performance with the currently available lenses. I like where these cameras and lenses are at now personally and for what they are I think they are incredible. If you want a bigger sensor then get a DSLR.

Originally Posted by Clickie McPete

My understanding is that the close proximity of the sensor to the lens gives these cameras their distinctive bokeh qualities. Or maybe I should say lack of bokeh qualities because even with the 20 f1.7 wide open you don't get quite the same ultra thin DOF and blown out background as you would with a larger DSLR. So I would think a sensor that was increased in size would still have the same DOF qualities or perhaps even worse performance with the currently available lenses.

DOF is a function of sensor size, so you get the thin DOF on larger sensor cameras because they have larger sensors. Bokeh is a function of the lens, and specifically the number and shape of the lens aperture blades. The reason you'd need to re-design the lenses if you increased the sensor size while keeping the same mount would be to increase the lens coverage area to fit the larger sensor. Current MFT lenses are designed specifically to cover the 4/3 sensor, so on a larger sensor I'm guessing they'd vignette heavily.