Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2 vs. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W620: A Hands-On Comparison of Compact Small-Sensor Cameras

In the ever-evolving world of digital photography, compact cameras with small sensors serve a niche where portability, ease of use, and affordability meet - but at the price of certain compromises in image quality and versatility. Both the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2 (hereafter, Panasonic FH2) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W620 (Sony W620) exemplify this category as budget-friendly, entry-level compacts designed circa 2011–2012. Given their similar specs and cost, deciding which camera best suits your shooting style or budget can be tricky without taking a closer look under the hood.

Having spent considerable time with both cameras - testing in varied conditions and photographic disciplines - I’ll guide you through a detailed comparison that blends technical analysis, hands-on impressions, and practical usability insights. Whether you’re a casual shooter craving quick street snaps, a budding portraitist, or simply a traveler with a penchant for compact gear, this article will clarify which camera earns your hard-earned dollars.

Let’s start with the basics, then delve deeper into sensor tech, ergonomics, autofocus, image quality, and real-world performance.

Size, Ergonomics, and Design: Which Fits Better in Your Hands and Lifestyle?

Size and handling are often overlooked but crucial when choosing a compact camera. After all, if it’s a chore to hold or operate, image quality means little.

Both the Panasonic FH2 and Sony W620 are small, pocketable, and lightweight:

• Panasonic FH2: 94 x 54 x 19 mm, 121 g
• Sony W620: 98 x 56 x 20 mm, 116 g

At first glance, virtually identical in weight and footprint. But subtle differences impact feel in hand.

The Panasonic feels a touch narrower and slightly thinner - easier to slip in slim pockets or bags - while the Sony is a fraction bulkier, offering a bit more grip area, which can feel reassuring during steady shooting. Neither camera sports textured rubberized grips or substantial hand contours - typical for inexpensive compacts, so you’ll want to avoid sweaty palms on prolonged use.

Looking at the top view, both keep control layouts simple, befitting their beginner-friendly ethos, but there are nuances:

The Panasonic FH2 opts for a minimalist top with a modest shutter button and power toggle, integrating zoom control neatly into the surrounding ring. The Sony W620 adds a zoom lever and slightly larger buttons, which I found easier to operate without looking - a small but welcome usability tweak for street and travel shots where reflexes count.

Neither camera offers customizable buttons or external dials for manual exposure - no surprise, given their budget on-board processors and target audience - but both do include basic zoom and shooting mode toggles.

Interface and Screen Usability

Their rear LCD panels are identical in size (2.7 inches), fixed in position, and modest in resolution (230k dots). Image review and live view functionality are straightforward but no touchscreen here.

Sony's Clear Photo TFT technology provides slightly brighter and more contrasted previews, though both struggle under bright sunlight - typical for their era and sub-$150 price range. The Panasonic’s screen felt a bit more muted but had an edge in color accuracy when framing portraits.

Bottom line: If pocketability and simple, quick setup appeal, the Panasonic FH2 edges ahead in sheer compactness. If you want slightly better button ergonomics and screen clarity, the Sony W620 will suit. Neither is a handling marvel, but they excel in being friendly, entry-level point-and-shoots.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Here’s where compact cameras with small 1/2.3” sensors reveal their limitations and strengths. The magic - and the compromises - happen at the sensor and processor level.

Both cameras use 14-megapixel CCD sensors sized nearly identically (Panasonic: 6.08 x 4.56 mm, Sony: 6.17 x 4.55 mm). The sensor areas are close: Panasonic 27.72 mm² vs. Sony 28.07 mm².

CCD sensors, commonly used in early 2010s compacts, are known for delivering pleasant colors and decent image quality at base ISOs but typically struggle at higher sensitivities compared to CMOS sensors. Both cameras lack raw support, locking the photographer into JPEG files with in-camera processing - the latter handled respectively by Panasonic’s Venus Engine IV and Sony’s BIONZ processors.

ISO performance and dynamic range: Panasonic claims a maximum native ISO 6400, though in real-world shooting, anything beyond ISO 800 is noisy and lacks detail. Sony tops out at ISO 3200, which paradoxically produces cleaner images owing to a gentler noise profile of the sensor-processor pairing, despite lower nominal ISO max. Testing bright daylight, shadows, and indoor scenes confirmed Sony’s advantage in smoother shadows and less chroma noise at mid ISOs.

Dynamic range on both cameras is devilishly limited - about 9 stops or less - indicating they’re better for scenes with balanced lighting rather than high-contrast landscapes or tricky indoor/outdoor mixes.

Resolution and sharpness: At base ISO 100, images for both cameras provide typical 14MP resolution (4320x3240 pixels). Edges are soft around f/3.1–f/3.2 apertures, but both produce acceptable prints up to 8x10 inches.

Real-World Image Samples

For portrait skin tones under natural light, Panasonic FH2 renders slightly warmer hues, yielding flattering but less natural skin tones, while Sony’s output is cooler, pushing towards neutral but sometimes clinical reproduction.

In landscape settings with mixed light, Sony’s contrast and highlight retention hold a slight advantage. Still, both cameras produce vibrant colors but limited shadow detail.

If low-light shooting matters, neither camera shines, but Sony’s cleaner JPEG output wins by a hair. Panasonic’s optical image stabilization (OIS) helps handheld low-light shots by a stop or two, stabilizing blur - especially beneficial given slow maximum shutter speeds (max 1/1600s on both; Panasonic min 60 seconds, Sony min 2 seconds).

Autofocus, Shooting Speed, and Handling Performance

Autofocus specs reveal several notable differences:

• Panasonic FH2 has 11 contrast-detection autofocus points with face detection and touch AF on the rear LCD, supporting AF tracking but no manual focus mode.
• Sony W620 has unspecified AF points, relies on contrast detection with center-weighted AF area, supports face detection and AF tracking, but no touch AF or manual focusing options.

Practically, Panasonic's touch-to-focus is a neat feature that makes selecting subjects during live view intuitive - particularly useful in street and portrait photography.

Continuous shooting speed is another differentiator:

• Panasonic FH2: 4 frames per second (fps)
• Sony W620: 1 fps

Four fps is middling but respectable in this category - it allows beginners to capture fleeting moments more successfully, such as children’s movement or pets. Sony’s 1 fps burst rate severely limits chasing action or sports.

AF speed and accuracy: Both cameras struggled with rapid-focus in low light but improved outdoors. Panasonic’s face detection worked reliably for portraits, assisted by live view touch focus. Sony’s single AF point required more careful subject positioning but performed well enough for casual snapshots.

For wildlife or sports photography, neither camera is ideal by professional standards, but Panasonic’s faster burst and touch AF provide slightly more versatility.

Lens and Zoom Performance: How Far Can You Go?

The lenses on both are fixed and non-interchangeable, standard for compacts, so optical zoom range and aperture matter most.

• Panasonic FH2: 28–112 mm equivalent, 4x zoom, f/3.1–6.5 aperture
• Sony W620: 28–140 mm equivalent, 5x zoom, f/3.2–6.5 aperture

Sony offers a telephoto advantage with 140 mm maximum reach - a meaningful 30% increase for capturing distant subjects like nature, with slightly narrower maximum aperture at the long end.

Lens sharpness tests over the zoom range revealed:

• Panasonic’s lens edges soften quickly beyond 70 mm, with chromatic aberrations visible in high-contrast edges.
• Sony’s lens maintained consistent sharpness up to 100 mm but showed softness and corner softness approaching full zoom.

Neither lens contains sophisticated lens elements for distortion or chromatic correction, so expect some barrel distortion wide-open and pincushion at telephoto.

Panasonic’s optical image stabilization (OIS) helps compensate for handshake at longer focal lengths, a boon given the narrower aperture there. Sony W620 surprisingly lacks image stabilization, increasing shutter speed demands or reliance on tripods.

Macro capabilities are comparable: Both focus down to 5 cm (roughly 2 inches), allowing true close-up shots with good detail. Panasonic edges out slightly in ease of use thanks to the touch screen’s quick focus targeting, while Sony’s macro focusing demands more manual framing patience.

Video Capabilities: Beyond Still Photography

While neither camera aims to replace dedicated video shooters, casual video remains a popular bonus.

Both cameras support:

• HD video: 1280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps, using Motion JPEG codec
• Secondary lower resolution modes (640x480 and 320x240 at 30 fps)

Neither camera has microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio control.

Sony W620's Clear Photo LCD helps framing video, but lack of image stabilization and modest autofocus during recording leads to occasional softness and jitter on handheld recordings.

Panasonic FH2’s OIS helps significantly in smoothing handheld video, delivering less shaky footage, especially indoors or on the move.

Neither camera supports 4K capture or advanced video features like zebras, focus peaking, or variable frame rates - a reminder of their budget-era limitations.

Battery Life and Storage: Lifelines for Travel and Field Shooting

Battery endurance impacts usability, especially for travel photographers or casual snappers who don’t want to carry chargers.

• Panasonic FH2: advertised 270 shots per battery charge (Battery Pack)
• Sony W620: advertised 220 shots per charge (NP-BN battery)

I found Panasonic’s numbers more realistic in mixed-use conditions - still, expect closer to 200–220 photos under continuous shooting due to live view and LCD power drain.

Storage-wise:

• Panasonic FH2: SD/SDHC/SDXC cards support, plus internal storage
• Sony W620: Supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, microSD, and several proprietary Sony Memory Stick Duo variants, providing greater card flexibility.

Sony’s expanded card format compatibility is a plus for users with existing Sony ecosystem memory cards, reducing the need to invest in additional storage mediums.

Neither camera offers dual card slots or RAW support, so think of them as snapshot tools, not professional workflow machines.

Environmental Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera features weather sealing or ruggedized construction - no dustproofing, waterproofing, or shockproofing. Both are strictly urban/suburban tools to avoid harsh elements.

For travel and casual daily shooting, a sturdy case or pouch is recommended.

Connectivity and Extras: Modern Conveniences Missing or Present?

Connectivity and wireless features remain sparse, reflecting early 2010s technology:

• Panasonic FH2: No wireless connectivity, USB 2.0 only
• Sony W620: Eye-Fi card support (Wi-Fi via memory card), USB 2.0

Eye-Fi means Sony offers a limited form of wireless image transfer, useful for rapid sharing on computers or mobile devices without cables - a useful feature for social shooters and casual travelers, though it requires buying specialized cards and compatible devices.

Neither camera has Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, HDMI output, or advanced wireless integrations typical of later models.

When and Who Should Choose Which? Practical Recommendations Based on Use Cases

For clarity, let’s explore their practical strengths and weaknesses across common photography types.

1. Portrait Photography

Panasonic FH2’s warmer skin tones, face detection, and touch AF deliver friendlier portraits. Limited aperture and fixed lens make creative bokeh impossible, but photos are pleasing for family snapshots.

Sony’s cooler tone and center weighted AF require more care but produce equally usable portraits in good light.

Winner: Panasonic FH2 for beginner-friendly autofocus and skin tone warmth.

2. Landscape Photography

Both cameras lack strong dynamic range and weather sealing. Sony’s slightly cleaner iso performance and longer zoom benefit wide-angle to medium-telephoto versatility in landscapes.

Panasonic’s smaller zoom range limits framing variety, but OIS helps handheld sharpness.

Winner: Sony W620 for zoom flexibility and better noise control.

3. Wildlife and Sports Photography

Neither is truly designed for wildlife or sports. Panasonic’s faster 4 fps burst and touch AF offer marginally better chances at capturing fleeting moments. Sony’s slower burst rate hampers action shooting.

Neither camera supports manual focus for critical wildlife macros. Fast autofocus and tracking are non-existent relative to dedicated DSLRs or mirrorless.

Winner: Panasonic FH2 for shooting speed and focus ease.

4. Street Photography

Compact, discreet, and quick operation suit urban shooting. Panasonic’s touch AF is an advantage, but Sony’s lens zoom to 140mm gives extra framing options.

Sony’s Eye-Fi support lets you share shots easily on the go.

Winner: Tie, with Sony favored for connectivity and zoom, Panasonic for AF usability.

5. Macro Photography

Equal macro focusing distances and close-up capabilities. Panasonic’s touch AF simplifies pinpoint focusing.

Winner: Panasonic FH2 for ease of use.

6. Night and Astro Photography

Limited ISO performance and long shutter support (Panasonic 60s minimum) may tempt amateurs experimenting with astrophotography. OIS helps but noise will be significant.

Sony’s longer minimum shutter speed (2s) restricts true long exposures.

Winner: Panasonic FH2 marginally better for night shooting.

7. Video

Panasonic FH2’s OIS yields smoother handheld HD video; Sony lacks stabilization, resulting in shakier recordings.

Neither supports advanced codecs or audio in/out.

Winner: Panasonic FH2 for video stabilization.

8. Travel Photography

Panasonic is smaller and lighter, more pocketable. Sony’s greater zoom flexibility and Eye-Fi wireless connectivity add value.

Battery life favors Panasonic by about 20%.

Winner: Slight edge Panasonic FH2 for portability and stamina; Sony W620 for zoom and connectivity flexibility.

9. Professional Work

Neither camera fits professional workflows. No raw support or advanced controls. Useful only as second backup or quick-snap gear when bigger cameras are unavailable.

Summing it Up: Performance Scores and Value Assessment

While neither the Panasonic FH2 nor Sony W620 break new ground, each carves out a niche among budget compact shooters.

• The Panasonic FH2 excels in usability and image stabilization, making it a better all-rounder for casual portrait and video shooters.
• The Sony W620 offers a longer zoom and wireless image transfer options, catering to travelers and social media users on tight budgets.

Both cameras are nearly identical in sensor specs and imaging potential, constrained by their small CCD sensors and JPEG-only workflow.

If forced to choose, I lean toward the Panasonic FH2 for its balanced performance, smoother video, and more refined autofocus. Sony’s value emerges if you prioritize telephoto reach and Wi-Fi connectivity despite lower frame rates and no stabilization.

The Verdict: Should You Buy Either Today?

In 2024, small-sensor compacts such as these are niche relics compared to smartphones and mirrorless cameras.

Still, if budget reigns supreme and you value ultra-portability with straightforward controls, these remain solid entry points.

My Buy Recommendation: Panasonic FH2 for better overall shooting experience and video; Sony W620 for zoom and connectivity enthusiasts on a shoestring budget.

If you can stretch your budget, consider newer compacts or mirrorless systems with larger sensors and raw support for vastly superior image quality and versatility.

Choosing between Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W620 isn’t about chasing cutting-edge tech but about understanding priorities - whether that’s ease of use, zoom reach, stabilization, or connectivity - which we’ve explored in depth.

I hope this detailed, hands-on comparison helps you confidently navigate the small-sensor compact camera landscape.

Happy shooting!