Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic FS42

In this article, we will be analyzing the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic FS42, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the FS42 (10MP) is relatively close but the 550WP (1/2.3") and FS42 (1/2.5") possess totally different sensor sizing.

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The 550WP was manufactured 3 months earlier than the FS42 and they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus 550WP being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the 550WP matches up versus the FS42 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 550WP and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42. The entire galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery and Panasonic FS42 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus 550WP has got external measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Panasonic FS42 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Examine the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic FS42 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is the front view size comparison of the 550WP vs the FS42.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 550WP and FS42 is 94 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements just by researching specs. The visual here may provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the 550WP and FS42.

All in all, the two cameras offer the same exact megapixel count albeit not the same sensor measurements. The 550WP uses the bigger sensor which should make achieving shallow depth of field easier.