Panasonic FH1 vs Sony A55

Here, we will be matching up the Panasonic FH1 and Sony A55, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the FH1 (12MP) and A55 (16MP) and the FH1 (1/2.3") and A55 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The FH1 was introduced 7 months prior to the A55 which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the FH1 matches up versus the A55 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 and Sony SLT-A55. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH1 Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera often, you should factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FH1 has physical 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 Sony A55 has sizing of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FH1 and Sony A55 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at the time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the FH1 against the A55.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the FH1 and A55 is 95 and 67 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to envision the gap in sensor sizes just by seeing specifications. The pic below will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH1 and A55.

To sum up, each of the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The FH1 with its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Sony A55 will provide more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged FH1 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.