Panasonic FH1 vs Sony A350

Here is a comprehensive analysis of the Panasonic FH1 versus Sony A350, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the FH1 (12MP) and the A350 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the FH1 (1/2.3") and A350 (APS-C) use different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The FH1 was revealed 20 months later than the A350 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A350 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the FH1 grades versus the A350 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A350. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH1 Gallery and Sony A350 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH1 provides outside dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Sony A350 has dimensions of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") having a weight of 674 grams (1.49 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FH1 versus Sony A350 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at that moment. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the FH1 versus the A350.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FH1 and A350 is 95 and 62 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to picture the difference between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The visual underneath will provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH1 and A350.

Clearly, both of those cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FH1 with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Sony A350 will give greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more recent FH1 provides an advantage in sensor technology.