Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax XG-1

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Panasonic FH1 versus Pentax XG-1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the FH1 (12MP) and XG-1 (16MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FH1 was brought out 5 years before the XG-1 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting in to a thorough comparison, below is a brief summary of how the FH1 scores against the XG-1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 and Pentax XG-1. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic FH1 Gallery and Pentax XG-1 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera, you will have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic FH1 features exterior dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Pentax XG-1 has sizing of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") with a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FH1 versus Pentax XG-1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the FH1 vs the XG-1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH1 and XG-1 is 95 and 66 respectively.

Sometimes, it is tough to visualize the gap between sensor dimensions just by going over specs. The picture below might provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH1 and XG-1.

All in all, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Pentax XG-1 to offer extra detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged FH1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.