Panasonic FH2 vs Sony A350

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Panasonic FH2 and Sony A350, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH2 (14MP) and the A350 (14MP) is fairly similar but the FH2 (1/2.3") and A350 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The FH2 was revealed 2 years after the A350 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH2 being a Compact camera and the Sony A350 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief summary of how the FH2 scores vs the A350 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A350. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FH2 Gallery and Sony A350 Gallery.

In case you're looking to travel with your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH2 comes with outer measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") along with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) whilst the Sony A350 has dimensions of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 674 grams (1.49 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH2 and Sony A350 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the FH2 and the A350.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the FH2 and A350 is 96 and 62 respectively.

Usually, its difficult to see the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by reviewing technical specs. The pic underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FH2 and A350.

As you have seen, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact resolution but not the same sensor dimensions. The FH2 comes with the tinier sensor which will make obtaining shallower DOF more challenging. The more modern FH2 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.