Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH6 vs. DMC-SZ10: A Hands-On Comparison for Compact Camera Buyers

As someone who has tested well over a thousand compact digital cameras throughout my photography career, I’ve witnessed the evolution of point-and-shoot designs - from basic snapshot tools to versatile travel companions. Today, I’m diving deep into two entry-level Panasonic compacts separated by a few years but occupying a similar category: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH6, announced in early 2012, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ10, launched three years later in 2015.

At their cores, both cameras target casual photographers who crave portability and ease-of-use with a sprinkle of zoom flexibility. Yet, amidst their similarities lie meaningful differences - sensor revisions, lens reach, body ergonomics, and practical handling nuances. After putting both through thorough laboratory benchmarks and real-world shooting instincts, I hope to deliver an insightful, experience-backed guide to help you pick the right compact camera for your niche or budget.

Compactness Meets Usability: Handling and Design

Handling is where the rubber meets the road, especially with compact cameras that are meant to be grab-and-go devices. The FH6 and SZ10 each embody a discrete design philosophy but with different ergonomic priorities.

Size, Weight, and Physical Feel

Physically, the FH6 feels even smaller and lighter than the SZ10 - measuring 96x56x20 mm and weighing only 119 g, it is resolutely pocketable. The SZ10 is chunkier and heavier at 99x60x30 mm and 177 g, reflecting its extended 12× zoom optics and slightly larger screen. While neither are unwieldy, the FH6’s compactness lends itself favorably to street and travel shooters who prioritize minimalist packing.

The FH6’s flat, smooth body is comfortable enough for quick snaps, but the tradeoff is limited grip and button real estate. In contrast, the SZ10’s thicker body facilitates a sturdier hold, making longer shooting sessions less taxing. The 10 mm thickness difference is tangible when gripping one-handed for extended periods.

Control Layout and Top-Panel Design

Surprisingly, neither camera offers manual controls like aperture or shutter priority, which is common in this class. Both rely on fully automatic exposure with minimal user intervention. The SZ10 edges ahead slightly by including continuous autofocus and live view AF, making it better suited for moving subjects.

Neither camera sports an EVF, so all composition is done via LCD. The SZ10’s modestly larger 3-inch tilting screen (with 460k-dot resolution) eclipses the FH6’s fixed 2.7-inch 230k-dot panel in usability and framing versatility. The tilting feature is a helpful addition for composing from low or high vantage points, a boon in street and travel settings.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality

Both models employ the familiar 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor - standard fare for compact cameras of their era - to capture stills and video. The FH6 has a 14-megapixel resolution (4320x3240 max), whereas the SZ10 bumps this to 16 megapixels (4608x3456 max).

CCD sensors, while quite good for their time, lag behind modern CMOS chips regarding noise control and speed. Both cameras lack RAW support, resulting in compressed JPEG files straight from the sensor. That limits post-processing flexibility for professionals but suffices for casual social sharing.

For practical shooting, the SZ10’s slightly higher megapixel count offers marginally better detail. However, the SZ10’s max native ISO tops out at 1600, compared to the FH6’s boosted 6400 range (though real usable images degrade above ISO 400 on both). Neither camera handles low light well due to their small sensor area (just 27.72 mm²). Noise creeps into shadows quickly, and dynamic range is narrow - blown highlights and crushed blacks can be common in high-contrast scenes.

Zoom and Lens Performance: Flexibility vs. Speed

Let’s talk glass - which is often make or break for small-sensor compacts.

• FH6 lens: 24-120 mm equivalent focal length, 5× zoom, max aperture f/2.5 (wide) to f/6.4 (telephoto)
• SZ10 lens: 24-288 mm equivalent, 12× zoom, max aperture f/3.1 (wide) to f/6.3 (telephoto)

The SZ10’s considerably longer 12× optical zoom opens up telephoto shooting opportunities unreachable by FH6, which caps out at 120 mm. This longer reach favors travel and wildlife snapshots, where distance is a factor. But with increased zoom comes tradeoffs - possible loss of sharpness at extremes and slower maximum apertures.

The FH6's lens starts brighter at f/2.5 wide, aiding low-light and depth of field control somewhat better than SZ10's f/3.1. For portrait shooting, a wider aperture helps create subject-background separation (bokeh), but these models' small sensors limit the potential for creamy bokeh regardless.

The FH6 lens macro mode allows focusing at 5 cm, ideal for close-up shots. The SZ10 does not specify macro capability, likely meaning a more conventional minimum focus distance.

Autofocus: Precision and Speed in Real Scenes

Autofocus performance is critical even on entry-level cameras, especially for subjects in motion.

• FH6: contrast-detection autofocus only, no continuous AF, 9 focus points, face detection supported
• SZ10: contrast-detection autofocus, continuous AF enabled, 9 focus points, face detection, live view AF

Both rely solely on contrast detection, with no PDAF phase-detection assist, resulting in slower focusing than modern hybrids. The SZ10’s ability to maintain continuous AF during burst captures helps when shooting slight subject movements or video.

In practice, the SZ10 nails focus faster and more reliably, especially in decent lighting. The FH6 often hunts or locks in a bit sluggishly and doesn’t adjust continuously, reducing hit rate on moving targets.

Neither supports advanced tracking or eye-detection autofocus, so wildlife and sports enthusiasts may find these systems underwhelming for their needs.

Shooting Speed and Burst Performance

Neither camera is designed for speed-obsessed shooters. The FH6 maxes out at a meager 2 frames per second (fps) in continuous shooting, while the SZ10 tops out at 1.4 fps.

In practical use, this means neither is suitable for fast action sports; expect lag and frame skipping even on moderate movement. Wildlife shooters aiming to capture rapid sequences should look elsewhere.

Interface, LCD, and Live View

Interface-wise, the SZ10 has a more modern LCD with nearly double the resolution and a tilting mechanism. This enhances framing flexibility, especially when shooting at unconventional angles - think crouching for street candids or balancing shots above a crowd.

The FH6’s lower resolution, fixed-position screen feels dated and a bit restrictive, though perfectly adequate for point-and-shoot use.

Neither camera offers touchscreen control, reflective of their age and market segment.

Video Capabilities: Stepping Back in Time

Video remains modest on both models: max resolution is 1280x720 (HD) at 30 fps encoded in Motion JPEG format. This is quite limited by today’s standards and produces large files with modest compression, consuming storage quickly.

Neither camera supports 4K or advanced codecs, external microphone input, or headphone monitoring. The optical image stabilization aids smoother handheld shooting but cannot fully compensate for motion in dynamic subjects.

For casual video snippets - vacation moments or family events - the cameras suffice. Serious videographers will find features lacking.

Connectivity, Storage, and Power Management

Connectivity is basic to non-existent on these cameras.

• The FH6 offers no wireless options, relying solely on USB 2.0 for file transfers.
• The SZ10 includes built-in wireless, supporting Wi-Fi for image transfer, adding flexibility at a higher price point.

Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and include some onboard memory. Battery life skews modest: the FH6 rates ~280 shots per charge, while the SZ10 claims 200 shots. Both use proprietary battery packs - so carrying spares for travel is wise.

Durability and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera features weather sealing or rugged construction - there’s no dust-, splash-, shock-, or freeze-proofing. For casual indoor or fair-weather use, this is fine. But for outdoor landscape or wildlife shoots in challenging conditions, budget-minded photographers will need protective cases.

Putting It to the Test: Sample Images and Real-World Performance

Panasonic FH6 front Panasonic FH6 screen back Panasonic SZ10 front Panasonic SZ10 screen back

In carefully controlled shootouts, I found both cameras perform as expected for their price and class:

• Daylight landscape shots showed reasonably crisp details but limited dynamic range. The SZ10’s higher resolution pulled ahead in crop detail without becoming excessively noisy.
• Portrait shots tended toward flatness due to small sensors and limited aperture range; neither model creates significant bokeh separation but manages skin tones adequately in natural light thanks to intelligent JPEG processing.
• Low-light and indoor photos revealed noise from about ISO 800 upwards, with the FH6’s extended native ISO range offering little real benefit due to visible grain.
• Telephoto reach on the SZ10 was invaluable for candid street and wildlife captures, though some softness appears at the 288 mm edge.
• Video clips were serviceable but blocky at 720p, with stabilization stopping short of professional-quality smoothness.

Genre-Specific Suitability and Recommendations

Given their specifications and tested outcomes, here is how these cameras stack up for different photography styles:

• Portrait Photography: Both cameras deliver natural skin tones but no advanced autofocus or bokeh control. Use the FH6 for slightly wider apertures or SZ10 for extended zoom portraits. Neither perfect, but workable for casual use.
• Landscape Photography: The SZ10’s higher resolution and slightly better lens reach suit scenic shots better. Lack of weather sealing is limiting for rugged use.
• Wildlife Photography: SZ10’s 12× zoom helps reach distant subjects, but slow AF and burst rate hinder action capture. FH6 is less suited.
• Sports Photography: Neither camera can keep pace with fast action - slow frame rates and autofocus tracking limit usefulness here.
• Street Photography: FH6 wins with pocketability and discreet profile; SZ10’s telephoto reach aids candid distant shots. Tilt screen on SZ10 helps with creative angles.
• Macro Photography: FH6 offers close focusing (5cm), giving it an edge for close-up details. SZ10 lacks specific macro mention.
• Night/Astro Photography: Both struggle at high ISO, and long shutter modes are limited (max 8 seconds). Neither optimized for astro.
• Video: Basic 720p with limited features. SZ10’s Wi-Fi aids transfer but lacks audio inputs.
• Travel Photography: SZ10 offers versatility with zoom and tilt screen, though with weight penalty. FH6 is lighter and easier to pocket but less flexible.
• Professional Use: Neither model supports RAW, advanced controls, or robust build quality expected by pros.

Overall Performance Ratings and Value Assessment

Performance-wise, the Panasonic SZ10 offers modest improvements over the FH6, primarily in zoom range, screen quality, and connectivity. However, these gains come at the cost of portability and battery life. The FH6 remains appealing for ultra-compact convenience and simple use.

When considering price - typically around $130 for the FH6 and $200 for the SZ10 - value depends on user priorities. For buyers wanting a lightweight, straightforward shooter for casual snaps, the FH6 is a sensible choice. Users who crave telephoto reach, better LCD usability, and wireless connectivity will appreciate the SZ10 despite its larger footprint.

Final Thoughts: Which Panasonic Compact Suits You?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH6 is a quintessential small-sensor compact designed for effortless photography. Its petite size, bright wide-angle lens, and easy controls make it a solid point-and-shoot for beginners, travelers, or casual documentarians who want something quick and pocketable.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ10 builds upon that formula with an extended 12× zoom, a sharper and tilting 3-inch screen, Wi-Fi connectivity, and slightly improved autofocus capability. These enhancements cater more to users who want some focal length versatility and modern convenience at the expense of bulk.

In the current era - with smartphone cameras aggressively encroaching on compact camera territory - both remain niche options. But for those who still prefer dedicated little cameras, weighing image quality, zoom demands, and physical ergonomics will determine the better fit.

Suggested Buyers:

• Choose the Panasonic FH6 if:
  You want an ultra-compact, lightweight camera for social events, family outings, or street photography with basic zoom and straightforward operation. You favor portability above all else.

• Choose the Panasonic SZ10 if:
  You want longer zoom reach for travel or casual wildlife shots, a tilting, higher-res screen for creative framing, and wireless features for easy sharing - even if that means a slightly larger camera.

This direct field comparison provides you a solid foundation to know what each Panasonic compact brings to the table. Choose thoughtfully based on your shooting style and environment.

If you’re interested, I recommend testing each in person - ergonomics and real-world responsiveness often sway preferences beyond specs and numbers.

Happy shooting!

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5. Panasonic FH6 front Panasonic FH6 screen back Panasonic SZ10 front Panasonic SZ10 screen back