Nikon S02 vs Panasonic FP5

Lets look more closely at the Nikon S02 and Panasonic FP5, both Ultracompact digital cameras by companies Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the S02 (13MP) and the FP5 (14MP) is fairly similar but the S02 (1/3") and FP5 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

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The S02 was announced 2 years later than the FP5 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Ultracompact).

Before going in to a complete comparison, below is a brief summation of how the S02 scores against the FP5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S02 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon S02 Gallery & Panasonic FP5 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S02 has external measurements of 77mm x 51mm x 18mm (3.0" x 2.0" x 0.7") having a weight of 100 grams (0.22 lbs) and the Panasonic FP5 has dimensions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon S02 and Panasonic FP5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the S02 compared to the FP5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S02 and FP5 is 97 and 95 respectively.

Typically, its difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizing purely by going over specifications. The graphic here might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S02 and FP5.

To sum up, both of those cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S02 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh harder and the Panasonic FP5 will offer more detail with its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more modern S02 provides an edge when it comes to sensor technology.