Panasonic ZS200 vs Panasonic FS42

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic ZS200 and Panasonic FS42, former is a Large Sensor Compact while the other is a Ultracompact and both are offered by Panasonic. There is a considerable difference between the sensor resolutions of the ZS200 (20MP) and FS42 (10MP) and the ZS200 (1") and FS42 (1/2.5") enjoy different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The ZS200 was launched 8 years after the FS42 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS200 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the ZS200 matches up vs the FS42 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS200 Gallery & Panasonic FS42 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS200 has outer measurements of 111mm x 66mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.8") and a weight of 340 grams (0.75 lbs) while the Panasonic FS42 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS200 and Panasonic FS42 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have at that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the ZS200 and the FS42.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the ZS200 and FS42 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to visualize the gap between sensor dimensions purely by checking technical specs. The pic here may offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS200 and FS42.

As you can tell, both the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The ZS200 due to its larger sensor is going to make getting bokeh easier and the Panasonic ZS200 will give extra detail utilizing its extra 10MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The more recent ZS200 provides a benefit in sensor innovation.