Panasonic FH6 vs Sony NEX-F3

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic FH6 versus Sony NEX-F3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the FH6 (14MP) and the NEX-F3 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the FH6 (1/2.3") and NEX-F3 (APS-C) offer different sensor measurements.

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The FH6 was released 7 months prior to the NEX-F3 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH6 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-F3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the FH6 scores versus the NEX-F3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH6 and Sony Alpha NEX-F3. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH6 Gallery and Sony NEX-F3 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera, you have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FH6 enjoys exterior dimensions of 96mm x 56mm x 20mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 119 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-F3 has specifications of 117mm x 67mm x 42mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 314 grams (0.69 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FH6 versus Sony NEX-F3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the FH6 versus the NEX-F3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FH6 and NEX-F3 is 96 and 86 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing just by looking at technical specs. The visual below may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH6 and NEX-F3.

As you have seen, both of those cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FH6 because of its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Sony NEX-F3 will give you more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images more aggressively. The older FH6 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.