Panasonic FH1 vs Sony S980

Below is a comprehensive comparison of the Panasonic FH1 versus Sony S980, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH1 (12MP) and the S980 (12MP) is very comparable and they feature the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The FH1 was unveiled 11 months later than the S980 so they are both of a similar age. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the FH1 grades vs the S980 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FH1 Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH1 has got physical measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Sony S980 has measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH1 versus Sony S980 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are employing at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the FH1 vs the S980.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FH1 and S980 is 95 and 94 respectively.

More often than not, its difficult to visualize the difference in sensor measurements only by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph below will give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the FH1 and S980.

As you can see, both the cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements and the same resolution so you can expect comparable quality of pictures although you really should consider the launch date of the cameras into account. The newer FH1 provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.