Nikon S2900 vs Panasonic FP5

Its time to look much closer at the Nikon S2900 and Panasonic FP5, both Ultracompact cameras by brands Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the S2900 (20MP) and FP5 (14MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The S2900 was unveiled 4 years later than the FP5 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Ultracompact).

Before diving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the S2900 matches up against the FP5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S2900 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5. The full galleries are available at Nikon S2900 Gallery and Panasonic FP5 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon S2900 provides external dimensions of 95mm x 59mm x 20mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 119 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Panasonic FP5 has proportions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs).

Compare the Nikon S2900 and Panasonic FP5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the S2900 vs the FP5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S2900 and FP5 is 96 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing simply by viewing specs. The photograph underneath will help give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the S2900 and FP5.

All in all, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Nikon S2900 to result in more detail having an extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The younger S2900 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.