Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH25 vs. FH27: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Budget Compact Cameras

When you’re hunting for a truly affordable compact camera that packs some capable technology without breaking the bank, Panasonic’s Lumix FH series often pops up. Today, I dive deep into what separates the Panasonic Lumix FH25 and its near-twin, the FH27 - two budget-friendly compact cameras announced simultaneously in early 2011. Both target casual shooters and photography enthusiasts on a tight budget, but does shelling out a little more for the FH27’s incremental upgrades make sense? Or are you better off saving the difference and going for the FH25?

Over years of extensive testing, I’ve learned that small sensor compacts like these often blur the line between “good enough” and “just meh.” That said, with Panasonic’s solid track record and the same 16MP CCD sensor under the hood, there’s some positively surprising performance tucked into these diminutive cameras. My goal here is to distill the dusty specs into clear, actionable advice so you know exactly which camera suits your photography style, budget, and expectations.

Let’s get started.

One Look: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

Both cameras sport identically sized bodies - compact, pocket-friendly, and approachable for beginners or those who hate lugging equipment. They measure roughly 99 mm x 57 mm x 28 mm, with the FH25 weighing in at 159g and the FH27 slightly lighter at 152g.

From my hands-on testing, these cameras nestle comfortably in an adult hand but are better suited for casual snaps than serious, long-term shooting. The fixed 8x zoom lens (28-224 mm equivalent) is a decent all-rounder for street and travel shooting, but the noticeable slimness affects grip comfort - no clubs for thumbs here.

The FH27’s more modern 3-inch touchscreen screen (versus the FH25’s smaller 2.7-inch fixed display) gives it a slight edge in ease of interaction. Navigating menus, selecting focus points, or reviewing shots becomes less fiddly. However, the touch interface could sometimes be sluggish, a typical tradeoff in this price bracket.

Both cameras forgo a viewfinder entirely, relying solely on their LCDs. This hurts usability in bright outdoor conditions - a dealbreaker if you often shoot landscapes or travel in strong sunlight.

Ergonomics Summary:

• Both compact and lightweight; FH27 slightly more pocketable
• FH27’s touchscreen improves UI navigation; FH25 relies on physical buttons
• No viewfinder on either model, limiting usability in bright light
• Grip comfort adequate but not ideal for extended use

The Sensor Story: Image Quality and Performance

At the heart of both the FH25 and FH27 lies the same 16MP 1/2.3" CCD sensor (sensor area 6.08 x 4.56 mm), coupled with Panasonic’s long-running Venus Engine VI processor. This sensor size is typical for compacts of their era, balancing resolution and cost but restricting noise handling and dynamic range.

In my real-world tests, image quality is predictably solid for casual use but nowhere near what you’d get from micro four thirds or APS-C sensors. Colors are decent straight out of the camera, thanks to Panasonic’s well-tuned color science, but shadow details easily get crushed in challenging lighting.

Key observations:

• Dynamic range: Limited, with early clipping in shadows and highlights. No HDR bracketing to compensate.
• Noise: ISO 100-400 images are clean enough; beyond ISO 800, grain and softening increase sharply.
• Detail: Sharpness is respectable for the sensor class, benefiting from the 4608x3456 resolution, but fine textures suffer in low light.

Since neither model supports RAW shooting, JPEG processing becomes crucial. Both rely on typical in-camera noise reduction, which trades off some detail for smoother images.

Image Quality Takeaway:

• Fine for daylight walkabouts, family photos, and social media shots
• Struggles in low light; noisy at ISO 800+
• No RAW means less post-processing flexibility for pros

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Tracking the Action

For fast-moving subjects, autofocus speed and continuous shooting rates are vital. Both cameras feature contrast-detection AF with 11 focus points and face detection, but no phase-detection or advanced tracking.

Their AF systems were smoother than expected for the class, locking focus steadily in daylight but noticeably hunting indoors or with overly complex scenes. Face detection helped keep portraits sharp, but I wouldn’t rely on these for sports or wildlife action.

Both models capture images at up to 4 frames per second in burst mode, which is decent but limited by buffer depth and slow card write speeds typical to cameras in this segment.

• No manual focus, so you’re stuck hunting autofocus points
• No aperture/shutter priority modes - just fully automatic exposure control
• Competent face-detection autofocus; no animal eye or continuous AF tracking

Autofocus & Speed Summary:

• Suitable for casual photography; not recommended for fast action/sports
• Decent burst speed but limited by hardware constraints
• Face-detect aids portrait shooting accuracy

Screens and Interface: Reviewing and Composing Shots

Here’s one place the FH27 clearly pulls ahead given its 3.0" touchscreen compared to the FH25’s 2.7" fixed LCD (230k dots in both). The touchscreen feels responsive enough - for example, to tap to focus or swipe through images - which elevates usability.

The FH25’s screen is perfectly usable but feels a bit cramped, especially when framing videos or scrolling menus. In bright outdoor conditions, both screens suffer from low brightness and reflections, but the larger size and touchscreen of the FH27 slightly mitigate this.

Notably, neither camera includes a viewfinder, which hurts composition precision in tough lighting.

Screen Interface Summary:

• FH27’s touchscreen improves ease of use and quick controls
• FH25’s screen is smaller but still functional for casual shooters
• Both lack viewfinders, limiting performance outdoors

Lens and Zoom: Flexible or Fixed?

Identical lenses on both models offer a versatile 28-224mm equivalent zoom range (8x optical zoom) with variable apertures from f/3.3 to f/5.9. This range is great for everything from landscapes and portraits to some casual wildlife or street shots.

Macro focusing gets close - down to 5cm - allowing some fun close-ups, though the small sensor limits true macro depths of field and magnification.

The lens optics are decently sharp in the center, though softness creeps in toward the longest focal lengths and edges, typical of these budget zooms.

• No option for changing lenses - built-in fixed zoom only
• Optical image stabilization helps reduce shake in telephoto
• Variable aperture means low-light quality worsens when zoomed in

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Can You Shoot?

Battery life clocks in at about 250 shots, fairly standard for compacts of this vintage. I found the FH27 slightly more efficient in standby plus touchscreen-off mode, but realistically, expect to carry a spare battery for all-day shooting.

Both use typical SD/SDHC/SDXC cards in a single slot; no dual card redundancy here for pros.

• Batteries not user-swappable on the fly (standard packs)
• No USB charging capability; must use dedicated charger
• 250 shot capacity means flash card management and power saving important for travel or events

Connectivity and Extras: Wireless or Wired Options

Both cameras come barebones here - no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, no NFC, no GPS, and no HDMI ports. The only physical connection is a USB 2.0 port for downloading images.

This reflects their era and budget position but limits integration with modern workflows or social sharing.

• No wireless or smartphone app support
• USB 2.0 limits transfer speeds compared to current standards
• No external mic or headphone jacks for video shooters

Video Performance: Fun but Limited

Both cameras shoot 720p HD video at 24 fps, recorded in Motion JPEG format. This results in large file sizes and limited compression efficiency but ensures decent quality in daylight.

No 1080p, no 4K, no manual video controls, and no in-body mic inputs mean video is more of a bonus feature for casual family clips rather than serious productions.

• 720p limited but acceptable for social media clips
• Optical image stabilization helps smooth handheld footage
• Lack of external audio input constrains sound quality control

How Do They Compare in Different Photography Genres?

Let’s get down to brass tacks and match each camera’s strengths and weaknesses to real-world shooting styles.

Panasonic FH25 front Panasonic FH25 screen back Panasonic FH27 screen back

Portrait Photography

Both cameras’ 16MP CCD sensors and face detection give reasonably natural skin tones indoors and outdoors. The lens bokeh isn’t dreamy due to small sensor size and limited aperture, but backgrounds blur slightly at 224mm narrow apertures.

• FH27’s touchscreen makes focusing on eyes simpler
• Not ideal for pro portrait work but nifty for family snapshots

Landscape Photography

Wide-angle zoom lets you frame broad vistas, but limited dynamic range and HDR options hold back detail recovery. No weather sealing restricts shooting in rugged conditions.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

These models struggle here. Contrast-based autofocus hunts in tricky light, and 4fps burst is slow for fast animals or action. The lack of manual exposure modes means you can’t tweak settings on the fly for challenging settings.

Street Photography

Compact size helps stealth shooting, but no viewfinder reduces composition accuracy in sun. The FH27’s touchscreen is a plus for quick shooting, but neither is particularly pocket-friendly for really light travel.

Macro Photography

Down to 5cm focusing distance is great for fun close-ups, but magnification is limited. No focus stacking or manual focus restricts creative macro effects.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light performance and high ISO noise make astro a no-go. The slow shutter speed envelope (max 1/60s) restricts creative lighting work and star trails.

Travel Photography

Compact dimensions and zoom range suit sightseeing, but short battery life and no GPS limit utility for long trips.

Professional Work

No RAW format, limited dynamic range, no hot shoe, and no rugged build mean these cameras aren’t contenders for serious professional use.

Overall Performance and Value: A Balanced Scorecard

Genre-Specific Strengths and Weaknesses at a Glance

• Casual Portraits: FH27 edges out for easier focus and review
• Travel Shots: Both decent for daylight travel photos; FH27’s touchscreen and lower weight help
• Low Light/Action: Neither performs well; cumbersome AF and noise issues common
• Video: Use only for brief family clips; FH27 better with touch controls
• Macro: Adequate for beginners with close focusing support

Pros and Cons Summarized

Panasonic Lumix FH25

Pros:

• Slightly cheaper price (~$180)
• Good zoom range for general use
• Familiar physical controls for non-touchscreen fans

Cons:

• Smaller, non-touch 2.7” screen
• Slightly heavier grip
• No wireless connectivity
• No manual controls or RAW mode

Panasonic Lumix FH27

Pros:

• Larger 3” touchscreen LCD improves interface
• Lighter, more portable body
• Slightly better autofocus experience
• Improves value for casual and travel shooters

Cons:

• Pricier (~$230) for relatively small upgrades
• Still no advanced features or connectivity
• Limited battery life and no viewfinder

Final Verdict: Which Panasonic Compact Should You Choose?

If you’re a cheapskate on a tight budget, the Panasonic Lumix FH25 offers nearly all the key features at the lowest price point. Its fixed 2.7” screen and physical buttons aren’t fancy but solidly functional for casual snaps, family gatherings, and everyday walking-around photography.

However, if you value ease of use and responsiveness, especially for reviewing shots and focusing faster, the FH27’s touchscreen and lighter body justify the modest price premium. It’s the better pick for street shooters or travelers who want a no-frills, flexible compact with a modern feel.

Neither camera can replace a serious enthusiast’s mirrorless or DSLR kit. They’re best for beginners, casual photographers, and budget-minded buyers seeking simplicity over cutting-edge features. Expect solid daylight performance, straightforward operation, and basic video recording.

If you want to stretch your budget a little further, consider Panasonic’s newer Lumix TZ or ZS series with larger sensors, better low-light performance, and Wi-Fi - though at a higher price.

Closing Thoughts

Both the FH25 and FH27 exemplify Panasonic’s no-nonsense approach to affordable compacts from the early 2010s. My testing reinforced that despite dated specs and limited feature sets, they can still carve out a niche for users who prize lightness, zoom versatility, and simple shooting.

I hope this detailed, real-world comparison helps you cut through marketing fluff and pick the camera best aligned with your photography goals, whether it’s casual snapshots or modest travel diaries. Don’t underestimate what a compact like this can do if you understand its limitations and strengths upfront!

Happy shooting, and as always, keep your expectations realistic and your shutter finger ready.

If you want to see more sample photos from each camera’s JPEG outputs, check out the gallery above, and feel free to ask any specific feature questions I might test next.

Panasonic FH25 front Panasonic FH25 screen back Panasonic FH27 screen back