Panasonic FH2 vs Pentax Q7

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Panasonic FH2 and Pentax Q7, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the FH2 (14MP) and the Q7 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the FH2 (1/2.3") and Q7 (1/1.7") use totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The FH2 was unveiled 3 years before the Q7 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH2 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick view of how the FH2 grades against the Q7 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2 and Pentax Q7. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH2 Gallery and Pentax Q7 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera, you will want to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FH2 provides outer dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q7 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FH2 and Pentax Q7 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is the front view size comparison of the FH2 against the Q7.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH2 and Q7 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to see the difference between sensor sizes purely by checking technical specs. The pic here will help give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH2 and Q7.

As you can tell, both of these cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The FH2 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Panasonic FH2 will give you more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged FH2 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.