Panasonic Lumix FH5 vs Sony RX1: A Tale of Two Compacts for the Discerning Photographer

In the sprawling world of digital cameras, two curious compacts from different times and tiers beckon attention: the Panasonic Lumix FH5, a humble yet sprightly small-sensor point-and-shoot from 2011, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1, a large-sensor fixed-lens marvel launched in 2013, often hailed for its no-compromise image quality at what many call a “luxury compact” price. As someone who has tested thousands of cameras - from pro-grade beasts to wallet-friendly models - diving into these two presents an intriguing contrast: the Panasonic FH5 is all about ease and casual use; the Sony RX1 is for the photo purist craving full-frame sharpness in a pocketable form.

In this detailed comparison, I’ll walk you through how these two cameras differ in design, image quality, handling, and real-world application across a broad array of photographic disciplines - helping you decide which compact companion might earn a place in your gear bag or shelf. Along the way, I’ll incorporate technical analysis, hands-on impressions, and honest perspectives on value, with just a dash of wit (because cameras are serious, but life doesn’t have to be).

First Impressions: Size, Design, and Usability

Let’s face it: for many photographers, especially those who like to travel light or shoot spontaneously, size and ergonomics are crucial. Here our first visual comparison gives a quick glance at their physical form factors.

The Panasonic FH5 is petite - tiny, even - measuring just 94 x 54 x 19 mm and weighing a mere 121 grams. It’s one of those cameras that disappear in your palm or pocket, perfect for casual shooting or as a backup. Its fixed lens covers 28-112 mm equivalent with a variable aperture between f/3.1 and f/6.5. The build is typical compact-chic plastic, lightweight with minimal grip - so don’t expect robust weather sealing or ergonomic delights.

By contrast, the Sony RX1, at 113 x 65 x 70 mm and 482 grams, is a more substantial pocket companion. It’s still compact compared to DSLRs or mirrorless systems with interchangeable lenses, but this is a serious, all-metal, machined camera with a premium heft that inspires confidence as you hold it. The 35 mm f/2.0 fixed Zeiss lens screams classic, marrying simplicity with stellar optical quality. It’s not slim by any stretch, but it balances size with the built-in full-frame sensor and control layout cleverly.

Speaking of controls…

The FH5 embraces simplicity - just a handful of buttons, a small mode dial, and a non-articulated 2.7-inch, 230k-dot LCD screen. No viewfinder, no touchscreen, no manual dials. This is photography pared back to its most basic essence - ideal for snapshots but not exactly inviting for creative control freaks.

In sharp contrast, the RX1 is built for the enthusiast who prefers manual exposure modes - shutter priority, aperture priority, full manual - with dedicated dials and buttons. Although minimalistic, the RX1’s ergonomics cater to tactile feedback. Its 3-inch 1229k-dot ‘Xtra Fine’ TFT LCD provides a detailed live view. Moreover, the optional external electronic or optical viewfinder adds a layer of compositional precision rare in compacts.

While the RX1’s screen is bright, detailed, and allows for clear exposure previews, the FH5’s 230k-dot screen feels a tad toy-like nowadays. Missing touchscreen functionality on both keeps the interface traditional, which is fine - especially if you’re used to physical buttons rather than swipe gestures.

Inside the Heart of Each Camera: Sensor Tech and Image Quality

This is where the story begins to diverge dramatically. The ‘small sensor compact’ FH5 houses a 1/2.3” CCD sensor of 16 megapixels, whereas the RX1 packs a full-frame 24MP CMOS sensor - a huge difference in terms of physics and imaging potential.

The FH5’s sensor measures a modest 6.08 x 4.56 mm, whereas the RX1’s sensor is a behemoth at 35.8 x 23.8 mm - roughly 30 times the surface area. Larger sensor area means larger photosites (generally speaking), which translates to better dynamic range, finer tonality, and improved low-light capabilities.

From my lab testing and real-world shoots, the Sony RX1 stands tall with an excellent DxOMark overall score of 93 - a metric reflecting superb color depth (25.1 bits), dynamic range (14.3 EV), and low-light ISO performance (useful up to ISO 2500+ without becoming unusable). Compare that to the FH5’s lack of DxOMark data, but anyone who has shot with similar small-sensor CCD compacts knows the maximum ISO of 6400 is mostly theoretical noise hell. In truth, you’ll want to stay at ISO 100 or 200 to avoid murky grain and color distortion.

Image sharpness and resolution: The RX1 produces 6000 x 4000 pixel files that are impressively detailed, while the FH5’s 4608 x 3456 files sometimes appear softer and more prone to artifacts due to sensor size and lens constraints.

Color rendition? The RX1, thanks to its advanced sensor and Zeiss glass, delivers luscious skin tones and vibrant yet accurate colors. The FH5 feels more “standard point-and-shoot” - fine for snapshots on an LCD, but lacking the depth and subtlety pros and enthusiasts crave.

Autofocus, Speed, and Burst Performance

Here’s an important note: neither camera features the latest phase-detection autofocus systems - instead, both rely on contrast detection AF, which can be a mixed bag depending on light and subject.

The FH5 has 11 focus points with face detection and AF tracking. It’s adequate for casual use - if you’re photographing steady subjects or landscapes, but a bit frustrating if you’re chasing moving subjects.

The RX1 slots in 25 AF points, including center-weighted and spot metering modes. Face detection is present, but there’s no continuous AF or eye-detection autofocus - which is a noticeable omission for portrait shooters today.

Burst speeds? The FH5 shoots 4 fps (frames per second), while the RX1 edges ahead at 5 fps. Neither are sports cameras by modern standards; their relatively modest speeds reflect their design priorities and technology vintage.

How Do They Shoot Across Genres? Real-World Use Cases Broken Down

Let’s put these cameras to the test through the lens of popular photography genres and see what works, what struggles.

1. Portraits: Capturing Skin and Soul

In portraiture, the RX1 wins hands down due to its full-frame sensor and fast f/2.0 lens, which can render backgrounds butter-smooth with attractive bokeh. Skin tones are natural and finely graduated - a testament to sensor quality and color science. Manual focus also helps for those who prefer precision over speed.

The FH5 offers a variable aperture (f/3.1-f/6.5) that struggles somewhat in low light, and the limited focal length range on the longer end (112mm equiv) is decent but can’t quite match the artistic control the RX1 permits. Skin tones can be a bit flat or plasticky in challenging light due to sensor limitations.

For portrait photographers prioritizing quality over speed, the RX1 is a no-brainer. For snapshot style or travel portraits where convenience beats perfection, the FH5 suffices.

2. Landscapes: Detail, Dynamic Range, and Stability

Landscape enthusiasts will be tempted by the RX1’s sharpness, dynamic range, and ability to use small apertures down to f/22 for deep depth of field. The large sensor ensures detail retention even in shadow areas.

The FH5’s small sensor size limits dynamic range, and CCD sensors are notorious for more highlight clipping. Though it offers optical image stabilization, lack of weather sealing and relatively narrow focal length can hold back adventurous landscape shooters.

Between these two, the RX1 is clearly the landscape generalist’s pick - albeit at a much higher price.

3. Wildlife: Fast Focus and Telephoto Reach

Wildlife photography demands long reach and fast autofocus. The FH5’s lens goes out to 112 mm equivalent (approx. 4x zoom), which is serviceable for backyard birds or closer subjects.

The RX1’s fixed 35 mm lens lacks telephoto, making it unsuitable for wildlife unless you want to physically get close (often impossible or unethical). Also, autofocus speed can be hesitant in low light or with moving animals.

Neither camera is optimized for wildlife. If this genre is a priority, heavier telephoto systems or modern mirrorless might be better bets.

4. Sports: Tracking Action and Burst Power

Again, both cameras fall short here compared to purpose-built sports shooters.

The RX1 shoots 5 fps but lacks continuous AF, making it tricky to nail fast-moving subjects consistently. The FH5’s 4 fps and less advanced AF system further limit action capture.

For casual sports snaps, the FH5 can handle the job; serious action photographers will want faster, more advanced gear.

5. Street Photography: Discretion Meets Image Quality

Street shooters often look for discretion, portability, and quick response.

The tiny FH5 is almost invisible in the street; its quiet operation and zoom lens provide framing versatility. But image quality is poor in dim conditions, and autofocus speed can be slow.

The RX1’s larger size is less subtle but still compact for a full-frame camera. It excels at image quality and sharpness critical for evocative street shots, though the fixed 35mm lens may require cropping or quick feet to capture the shot. It also offers quiet shutter modes ideal for unobtrusive shooting.

Overall, the RX1 suits dedicated street photographers willing to tolerate its size; the FH5 is better as a “grab and go” casual camera.

6. Macro: Close-up Fun

Neither camera is designed for macro, but the FH5 claims a minimum focus of 5cm, which is decent for casual close-ups.

The RX1 doesn’t specify macro focus range, and its 35mm lens isn’t known for tight close-ups.

For serious macro, neither is ideal, but the FH5 is a little more practical here.

7. Night and Astro: Noise and Exposure Control

The RX1’s large sensor and max ISO 25600 promise better high-ISO performance in low light. While noise appears at higher ISOs, images remain usable with noise reduction. The RX1 also shoots video up to Full HD.

The FH5 maxes at ISO 6400 but really you’ll want to keep it closer to 100–200 due to noise. Night photos may lack detail and suffer color casts. No real support for bulb-type or very long exposures.

Astro shooters will find the RX1’s sensor superior, but limited manual exposure options and stability features (no sensor-based optical stabilization) temper its utility.

Video Offerings: Which Compact is More Film-Friendly?

Video is an often overlooked consideration in compacts, but sport and travel shooters care.

The FH5 captures HD video at 1280 x 720p/30fps in Motion JPEG format - decent for casual clips, but not suitable for serious production.

The RX1 steps up with Full HD 1920 x 1080 options at multiple frame rates (including 60fps), and records in more modern codecs like MPEG-4 and AVCHD. It even has a microphone port for better audio - a boon for vloggers or filmmakers.

Neither camera has in-body stabilization (RX1 lacks stabilization entirely), but the FH5’s optical IS helps in stills and video stabilization to some extent.

For video enthusiasts, the RX1 is a more potent tool - but not quite a pro video camera.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity: Lifespan and Workflow Concerns

The FH5 and RX1 are neck and neck on battery life - rated for approximately 260 vs 270 shots per charge, respectively. I’ve found the FH5 runs slightly shorter in real life, especially when using flash.

Storage-wise, both use SD cards, with the RX1 optionally accepting Memory Stick cards, too. Single slots mean you should carry extra cards and batteries for prolonged shoots.

Connectivity is minimalist: no WiFi or Bluetooth on either, though the RX1 uniquely supports Eye-Fi card integration for wireless image transfer. Both offer USB 2.0, and the RX1 adds HDMI out - handy for reviewing shots on a big screen.

Lens Ecosystem and Future-Proofing: Fixed Lens Forever?

One big consideration in compact cameras is lens mount and interchangeability.

Both the FH5 and RX1 have fixed lenses - no option to swap optics. This is a significant limitation if you want to expand creative possibilities. The FH5 zoom lens is versatile but modest; the RX1’s prime 35 mm f/2 lens is stellar optically but not flexible.

If you crave lens variety, micro four thirds or mirrorless cameras shine here. But for pure portability and simplicity, fixed lenses keep things light and foolproof.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing or ruggedness - the FH5 is a lightweight plastic affair, the RX1 a premium metal build but still not weather resistant. Neither suit heavy rain or dusty environments without extra protection.

Price and Value: A Tale of Two Budgets

Here’s the elephant in the room.

The FH5 launches from around $170 new - a budget compact that won’t break the bank but won’t wow either.

The RX1, meanwhile, commands a whopping $2800 price tag, placing it in a small, elite niche of compact full-frame cameras. This price reflects the rare combo of full-frame excellence and pocketability.

Are the image quality and build upgrades worth the price? For serious shooters who value image quality but hate lugging heavy gear, absolutely. For casual snapshotters or beginners, it’s hard to justify.

How Do They Stack Up Overall? A Visual Scorecard

If I were to distill all this into a quick, approachable scorecard, it might look like this:

Unsurprisingly, the RX1 overwhelmingly outperforms the FH5 across almost every category except size and simplicity.

For a more nuanced breakdown:

You can see the RX1’s strengths lie in portraits, landscapes, and low-light work - all bolstered by its large sensor and fast lens. The FH5 scores modestly in casual snapshots and travel convenience.

Sample Images: Seeing Is Believing

Ultimately, we buy cameras for the pictures they produce. Here’s a side-by-side gallery of RAW processed test images, from portraits to landscapes, night shots to street scenes, comparing the FH5 and RX1 output in real shooting conditions.

Panasonic FH5 front Panasonic FH5 screen back Sony RX1 front Sony RX1 screen back

The difference is evident - the RX1 presents files with cleaner shadow details, more dynamic range, richer colors, and less noise at higher ISO. The FH5 images can seem flat, softer, and noisier in dim light, but still usable for casual purposes on social media or prints up to 8x10 inches.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Fits Your Photography Lifestyle?

Panasonic Lumix FH5 - The Budget-Friendly Casual Companion

If you want:

• A tiny, lightweight point-and-shoot
• Basic zoom versatility for family snaps and travel
• Easy operation without fuss
• Good optical image stabilization to counter hand shake
• A very low price point

Then the FH5 is your friendly little camera. It’s not going to rival modern smartphones in many ways, but for a dedicated travel compact circa 2011, it punches above its weight in user-friendliness and portability. Just temper expectations on image quality and low-light performance.

Sony RX1 - The Premium Full-Frame Fixed Lens Powerhouse

If you seek:

• World-class image quality without carrying a DSLR or mirrorless system
• A bright, fast lens for portraits and creative shooting
• Full manual controls and RAW shooting for precise editing
• Video capabilities beyond basic HD
• Solid build quality and a tactile, well-thought-out shooting experience
• Willingness to invest in premium gear and accept size/price trade-offs

The RX1 remains a rare gem - a compact full-frame shooter that still commands respect nearly a decade after launch. It’s not perfect (lacks in-body stabilization and modern AF eye tracking), but it serves serious enthusiasts and professionals who want ultimate image quality in a small body.

My Final Recommendation

For casual shooters, hobbyists, or those with tight budgets wanting a simple memory-maker, the Panasonic Lumix FH5 offers good value and ease of use.

For serious photographers looking for a compact camera with near-DSLR image quality, especially in portraits, landscapes, and travel, the Sony RX1 is a compact powerhouse well worth the premium - if you can stretch your budget.

If you want both image quality and some future-proofing versatility, also consider mirrorless systems like the Sony A7 series or the newer Panasonic Lumix full-frame models, which offer interchangeable lenses along with many modern features missing on these two compacts.

In the end, these two cameras occupy very different worlds: one is the cheerful snapshot buddy, the other the refined full-frame artist’s tool. Hopefully, this comparison arms you with clear insights to choose your next photographic companion wisely.

Happy shooting!