Panasonic FH2 vs Panasonic GX850

In this article, we will be comparing the Panasonic FH2 and Panasonic GX850, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are produced by Panasonic. The resolution of the FH2 (14MP) and the GX850 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the FH2 (1/2.3") and GX850 (Four Thirds) use different sensor measurements.

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The FH2 was introduced 7 years prior to the GX850 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH2 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX850 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a thorough comparison, below is a short view of how the FH2 scores against the GX850 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FH2 Gallery and Panasonic GX850 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH2 has physical measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) while the Panasonic GX850 has proportions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH2 and Panasonic GX850 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the FH2 vs the GX850.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FH2 and GX850 is 96 and 90 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizes just by going through a spec sheet. The image underneath should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the FH2 and GX850.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FH2 using its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Panasonic GX850 will produce extra detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged FH2 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.