Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax 645Z

Following is a extensive overview of the Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax 645Z, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Pro DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a substantial difference between the resolutions of the FH1 (12MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the FH1 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) offer different sensor measurements.

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The FH1 was launched 5 years prior to the 645Z which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the FH1 matches up versus the 645Z in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 & Pentax 645Z. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FH1 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FH1 features outer measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Pentax 645Z has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") having a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax 645Z in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select at that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the FH1 vs the 645Z.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FH1 and 645Z is 95 and 49 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes just by reading technical specs. The image below will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FH1 and 645Z.

As you have seen, both cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FH1 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF harder and the Pentax 645Z will offer you greater detail utilizing its extra 39 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged FH1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.