Panasonic FH3 vs Sony HX20V

Following is a extended assessment of the Panasonic FH3 and Sony HX20V, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There exists a large gap between the resolutions of the FH3 (14MP) and HX20V (18MP) but they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FH3 was revealed 3 years earlier than the HX20V which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the FH3 grades against the HX20V in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FH3 Gallery & Sony HX20V Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH3 comes with external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs) and the Sony HX20V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FH3 and Sony HX20V in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the FH3 vs the HX20V.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH3 and HX20V is 94 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizes merely by looking at technical specs. The pic below may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH3 and HX20V.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Sony HX20V to give you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged FH3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.