Panasonic FH3 vs Sony HX9V

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic FH3 and Sony HX9V, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH3 (14MP) and the HX9V (16MP) is relatively comparable and they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FH3 was released 18 months prior to the HX9V which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the FH3 scores versus the HX9V when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FH3 Gallery & Sony HX9V Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera often, you should think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH3 has got outside dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs) whilst the Sony HX9V has proportions of 105mm x 59mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FH3 and Sony HX9V in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the FH3 and the HX9V.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH3 and HX9V is 94 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing just by going through a spec sheet. The graphic below will help offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH3 and HX9V.

Clearly, the two cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You can count on the Sony HX9V to produce greater detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The older FH3 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.