Leica X1 vs Panasonic FH20

Following is a in depth assessment of the Leica X1 vs Panasonic FH20, one is a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Leica and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the X1 (12MP) and the FH20 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the X1 (APS-C) and FH20 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor sizes.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The X1 was manufactured within a month of the FH20 and they are of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Leica X1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera.

Before getting in to a complete comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the X1 scores against the FH20 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica X1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20. The entire galleries are available at Leica X1 Gallery and Panasonic FH20 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera, you will need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Leica X1 has physical dimensions of 124mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 306 grams (0.67 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH20 has dimensions of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Contrast the Leica X1 vs Panasonic FH20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the X1 and the FH20.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the X1 and FH20 is 89 and 93 respectively.

Generally, its hard to see the contrast between sensor sizes just by checking specifications. The pic below might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the X1 and FH20.

Plainly, both cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The X1 because of its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic FH20 will resolve greater detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs a little more aggressively.