Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax ist DS2

Its time to look much closer at the Panasonic FH1 and Pentax ist DS2, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the image resolutions of the FH1 (12MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) and the FH1 (1/2.3") and ist DS2 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The FH1 was revealed 4 years later than the ist DS2 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go into a complete comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the FH1 scores against the ist DS2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 & Pentax ist DS2. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FH1 Gallery & Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic FH1 enjoys outer dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) and the Pentax ist DS2 has specifications of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") with a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FH1 and Pentax ist DS2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the FH1 and the ist DS2.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FH1 and ist DS2 is 95 and 68 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to see the difference in sensor sizing simply by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph here should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH1 and ist DS2.

As you can see, both cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FH1 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic FH1 will provide extra detail because of its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The newer FH1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.