Panasonic FH5 vs Samsung TL500

The following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic FH5 and Samsung TL500, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Panasonic and Samsung. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the FH5 (16MP) and TL500 (10MP) and the FH5 (1/2.3") and TL500 (1/1.7") provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The FH5 was unveiled 6 months after the TL500 so they are of a similar generation. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a quick overview of how the FH5 scores vs the TL500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5 and Samsung TL500. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH5 Gallery and Samsung TL500 Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will have to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH5 provides external measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") and a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) and the Samsung TL500 has measurements of 114mm x 63mm x 29mm (4.5" x 2.5" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 386 grams (0.85 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FH5 and Samsung TL500 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 select at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the FH5 and the TL500.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the FH5 and TL500 is 96 and 88 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions only by looking through specs. The picture underneath might provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the FH5 and TL500.

All in all, both of those cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The FH5 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Panasonic FH5 will render more detail having an extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively.