Olympus E-420 vs Panasonic FS42

In this article, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-420 and Panasonic FS42, one is a Entry-Level DSLR and the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-420 (10MP) and the FS42 (10MP) is pretty comparable but the E-420 (Four Thirds) and FS42 (1/2.5") enjoy different sensor measurements.

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The E-420 was manufactured 9 months earlier than the FS42 so they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-420 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving through a detailed comparison, below is a short view of how the E-420 grades vs the FS42 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-420 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-420 Gallery and Panasonic FS42 Gallery.

If you're going to travel with your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-420 has outer measurements of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") along with a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FS42 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-420 and Panasonic FS42 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the E-420 against the FS42.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the E-420 and FS42 is 77 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to picture the gap in sensor dimensions purely by going through a spec sheet. The picture underneath will give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-420 and FS42.

Clearly, the 2 cameras offer the same exact MP albeit different sensor dimensions. The E-420 uses the bigger sensor which should make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult. The more aged E-420 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.