Panasonic FH20 vs Sony NEX-5R

In this write-up, we are matching up the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony NEX-5R, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is very similar but the FH20 (1/2.3") and NEX-5R (APS-C) feature different sensor sizing.

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The FH20 was introduced 3 years before the NEX-5R and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief summary of how the FH20 matches up versus the NEX-5R for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 & Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FH20 Gallery & Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH20 features outer measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5R has dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony NEX-5R in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the FH20 and the NEX-5R.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the FH20 and NEX-5R is 93 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements merely by going over specs. The photograph underneath may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the FH20 and NEX-5R.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The FH20 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving bokeh harder and the Sony NEX-5R will offer more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics a little more aggressively. The older FH20 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.