Panasonic FH20 vs Pentax RS1500

In this write-up, we are looking at the Panasonic FH20 and Pentax RS1500, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the RS1500 (14MP) is very well matched and they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FH20 was announced 14 months before the RS1500 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the FH20 matches up versus the RS1500 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 & Pentax Optio RS1500. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FH20 Gallery & Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH20 offers outer measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) while the Pentax RS1500 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FH20 and Pentax RS1500 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the FH20 against the RS1500.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FH20 and RS1500 is 93 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at specs. The graphic underneath should give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FH20 and RS1500.

All in all, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same MP and you can expect similar quality of files but you really should take the age of the products into consideration. The older FH20 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.