Panasonic FH1 vs Sony A550

Let's look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic FH1 versus Sony A550, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH1 (12MP) and the A550 (14MP) is pretty comparable but the FH1 (1/2.3") and A550 (APS-C) provide different sensor size.

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The FH1 was introduced very close to the A550 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the FH1 grades versus the A550 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FH1 Gallery and Sony A550 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH1 provides exterior dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) whilst the Sony A550 has measurements of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") along with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

See the Panasonic FH1 versus Sony A550 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the FH1 against the A550.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH1 and A550 is 95 and 63 respectively.

Sometimes, it is tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing only by going through specifications. The graphic below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH1 and A550.

To sum up, both of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FH1 using its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field tougher and the Sony A550 will show extra detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots way more aggressively.