Panasonic FH20 vs Sony A290

Here is a in depth review of the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony A290, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the A290 (14MP) is pretty comparable but the FH20 (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor size.

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The FH20 was unveiled 5 months prior to the A290 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the FH20 scores versus the A290 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FH20 Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH20 comes with exterior measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Sony A290 has dimensions of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") along with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony A290 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilising at that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the FH20 compared to the A290.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH20 and A290 is 93 and 66 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizing just by checking out specs. The graphic here should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the FH20 and A290.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras feature the identical megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizing. The FH20 uses the smaller sensor which should make achieving shallower DOF tougher.