Panasonic FH1 vs Sony A290

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic FH1 and Sony A290, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH1 (12MP) and the A290 (14MP) is relatively similar but the FH1 (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor measurements.

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The FH1 was released 5 months earlier than the A290 which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the FH1 scores versus the A290 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FH1 Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

If you're aiming to travel with your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH1 offers exterior dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) and the Sony A290 has proportions of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH1 and Sony A290 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at the time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the FH1 versus the A290.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH1 and A290 is 95 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions merely by going over a spec sheet. The image here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FH1 and A290.

As you can see, both of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The FH1 featuring a tinier sensor will make getting bokeh trickier and the Sony A290 will offer greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively.