Panasonic FH20 vs Sony A550

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony A550, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the A550 (14MP) is relatively similar but the FH20 (1/2.3") and A550 (APS-C) come with different sensor measurements.

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The FH20 was brought out at a similar time to the A550 so they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting in to a full comparison, below is a quick summary of how the FH20 scores versus the A550 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FH20 Gallery and Sony A550 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to travel with your camera, you will need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FH20 features 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 Sony A550 has specifications of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony A550 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the FH20 vs the A550.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH20 and A550 is 93 and 63 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by reading technical specs. The image here will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FH20 and A550.

As you can tell, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor dimensions. The FH20 has got the tinier sensor which will make getting shallow DOF tougher.