Panasonic FH5 vs Sony A35

Here is a in-depth review of the Panasonic FH5 vs Sony A35, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the FH5 (16MP) and the A35 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the FH5 (1/2.3") and A35 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The FH5 was revealed 8 months prior to the A35 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FH5 being a Compact camera and the Sony A35 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving through a in depth comparison, below is a quick overview of how the FH5 matches up vs the A35 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5 and Sony SLT-A35. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FH5 Gallery and Sony A35 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH5 has got physical dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") and a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) whilst the Sony A35 has proportions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") having a weight of 415 grams (0.91 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH5 vs Sony A35 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the FH5 vs the A35.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH5 and A35 is 96 and 69 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizing just by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph here might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FH5 and A35.

As you can see, each of these cameras posses the exact same megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The FH5 uses the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining shallow DOF more difficult. The older FH5 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.