Nikon S8200 vs Panasonic FH5

Its time to examine more closely at the Nikon S8200 and Panasonic FH5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the S8200 (16MP) and the FH5 (16MP) is very similar and they feature the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S8200 was revealed 8 months later than the FH5 and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a more detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the S8200 scores against the FH5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix S8200 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5. The full galleries are provided at Nikon S8200 Gallery and Panasonic FH5 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera regularly, you need to factor its weight and size. The Nikon S8200 offers external measurements of 104mm x 59mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH5 has specifications of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon S8200 and Panasonic FH5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the S8200 compared to the FH5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the S8200 and FH5 is 91 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to visualise the gap between sensor measurements purely by going over a spec sheet. The graphic below should give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the S8200 and FH5.

As you can see, both cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the exact same MP and you should expect similar quality of files although you will want to factor the release date of the products into consideration. The newer S8200 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.