Panasonic FH3 vs Samsung HZ50W

The following is a in-depth review of the Panasonic FH3 and Samsung HZ50W, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Panasonic and Samsung. The resolution of the FH3 (14MP) and the HZ50W (14MP) is pretty close and they come with the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FH3 was brought out 3 months before the HZ50W and they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH3 being a Compact camera and the Samsung HZ50W being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise summary of how the FH3 grades versus the HZ50W with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 and Samsung HZ50W. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic FH3 Gallery and Samsung HZ50W Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH3 enjoys external measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs) whilst the Samsung HZ50W has dimensions of 116mm x 83mm x 91mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.6") having a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FH3 and Samsung HZ50W in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the FH3 compared to the HZ50W.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the FH3 and HZ50W is 94 and 70 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions only by looking through specs. The picture here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FH3 and HZ50W.

All in all, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact MP and you should expect comparable quality of files however you should consider the production date of the cameras into account.