Panasonic FH3 vs Sigma SD1

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic FH3 versus Sigma SD1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by companies Panasonic and Sigma. The resolution of the FH3 (14MP) and the SD1 (15MP) is very similar but the FH3 (1/2.3") and SD1 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The FH3 was announced 8 months prior to the SD1 so they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FH3 being a Compact camera and the Sigma SD1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going into a more detailed comparison, here is a short summation of how the FH3 grades versus the SD1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 and Sigma SD1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH3 Gallery and Sigma SD1 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH3 has physical dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs) and the Sigma SD1 has dimensions of 146mm x 113mm x 80mm (5.7" x 4.4" x 3.1") along with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH3 versus Sigma SD1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the FH3 versus the SD1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the FH3 and SD1 is 94 and 77 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to see the gap between sensor sizes only by reviewing technical specs. The image here will offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH3 and SD1.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FH3 having a tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more difficult and the Sigma SD1 will offer you more detail with its extra 1MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos way more aggressively. The more aged FH3 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.