Panasonic FH20 vs Pentax VS20

On this page, we will be matching up the Panasonic FH20 and Pentax VS20, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the VS20 (16MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras provide the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The FH20 was launched 24 months prior to the VS20 which makes them a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a thorough comparison, here is a simple summary of how the FH20 grades vs the VS20 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 & Pentax Optio VS20. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH20 Gallery & Pentax VS20 Gallery.

When you are looking to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH20 has got outside dimensions of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Pentax VS20 has measurements of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") with a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

See the Panasonic FH20 and Pentax VS20 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the FH20 and the VS20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH20 and VS20 is 93 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor dimensions just by reading through specs. The pic here should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH20 and VS20.

All in all, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You can count on the Pentax VS20 to resolve more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged FH20 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.