Panasonic FH27 vs Sony NEX-5R

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Panasonic FH27 versus Sony NEX-5R, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the FH27 (16MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is relatively well matched but the FH27 (1/2.3") and NEX-5R (APS-C) come with different sensor dimensions.

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The FH27 was revealed 20 months prior to the NEX-5R which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH27 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a complete comparison, below is a quick summary of how the FH27 scores versus the NEX-5R when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH27 & Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FH27 Gallery & Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH27 has exterior dimensions of 99mm x 57mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") along with a weight of 152 grams (0.34 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5R has dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FH27 versus Sony NEX-5R in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using at the time. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the FH27 against the NEX-5R.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the FH27 and NEX-5R is 94 and 89 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by looking at specs. The image below will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FH27 and NEX-5R.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit different sensor sizes. The FH27 offers the tinier sensor which will make obtaining shallower DOF more difficult. The more aged FH27 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.