Panasonic Lumix FH7 vs Pentax Efina: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Compact Contenders

When compact camera shopping, those seeking straightforward, pocketable options with basic zoom and image stabilization often face a bewildering choice. Today, I’m bringing you a detailed, hands-on comparison between two small-sensor compact cameras that share the same category yet present very different propositions: the Panasonic Lumix FH7 (née Lumix DMC-FS22) and the Pentax Efina.

Both were released in the first half of the 2010s, aimed squarely at casual photogs looking for easy-to-use cameras with modest zoom ranges and lightweight bodies. Yet, despite their surface similarities, they differ in subtle but important ways that will influence how they perform in real-world photography - whether you’re capturing landscapes on vacation or street portraits downtown.

Having extensively tested both cameras over the years, I will unpack their specifications, ergonomic design, imaging capabilities, and practical performance across various photography genres, peppering in my personal experience from sessions shooting portraits to macro shots. Ultimately, the goal is to help you decide which might fit best into your kit, whether you’re an absolute beginner or an enthusiast looking for a compact travel buddy.

Size, Ergonomics, and Build: Pocketability Meets Practical Handling

Starting with physical dimensions and handling, size and feel matter heavily in a compact camera, especially for on-the-move or travel shooting.

The Panasonic FH7 measures a manageable 95 x 56 x 19 mm and weighs around 126 grams, while the Pentax Efina is even smaller at 87 x 54 x 21 mm and lighter with 91 grams. In real use, the differences are noticeable: the Efina slips more easily into a jacket pocket or a purse without feeling cumbersome.

However, the Panasonic’s slightly larger footprint pays off in terms of ergonomics, offering better grip comfort during extended shooting. The FH7’s more defined handholds, subtly textured body, and larger shutter button contributed to a more confident hold when shooting on the street or at events. The Efina’s minimalistic design caters to pure portability but may feel less secure in hand, especially if you shoot with one hand often.

Looking at the camera controls (above), the Panasonic FH7 features a touch-sensitive rear screen with some touchscreen focus capability, a welcome for quick framing adjustments. The Efina, meanwhile, sticks to traditional physical buttons without touch support, which might appeal more to users preferring tactile feedback but slows down navigation slightly.

Neither offers an electronic viewfinder (EVF), so composing and reviewing depends entirely on their rear LCDs, which we’ll assess further in the “Display and Interface” section.

Build quality and durability:

Both cameras come without any notable weather sealing or rugged features, so use in harsh conditions should be cautious. The Panasonic’s Venus Engine IV processor and build seem a bit sturdier in my experience, whereas the Pentax feels more delicate given its ultra-compact design and lighter weight.

Summary:

• PC3 Panasonic FH7: Larger, better ergonomics, more comfortable for longer use; modestly heavier but still pocketable.
• Pentax Efina: Smaller and lighter for ultimate portability but sacrifices grip comfort.
• Both below enthusiast ruggedness; best for casual use.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Balancing Resolution and ISO Performance

Both cameras are built around a small 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, standard fare for compacts in this price range. But let’s dig into the details.

• Panasonic FH7: 16-megapixel CCD, sensor area approx. 27.72 mm², max ISO 6400 (native 100-6400)
• Pentax Efina: 14-megapixel CCD, sensor area approx. 28.07 mm², max ISO 1600 (native 80-1600)

The Panasonic edges out the Efina slightly in resolution, which translates to larger image files - 4608 x 3456 pixels versus 4288 x 3216 for the Pentax. In practical testing, this difference affects detail capture and cropping latitude. The FH7’s 16MP sensor produces sharper, more detailed images especially noticeable in daylight landscape and macro photography.

However, the downside to Panasonic’s choice of a higher megapixel count on a small sensor is increased noise at higher ISO levels. The maximum native ISO of 6400 on the FH7 is ambitious but far noisier in low light than the Pentax’s lower ceiling at ISO 1600. In my low-light tests, the Pentax Efina delivered marginally cleaner images at ISO 800-1600, likely due to less aggressive noise amplification.

Neither camera captures RAW files, so photographers are restricted to in-camera JPEGs, limiting post-processing flexibility. For enthusiasts and professionals, this is a significant drawback; casual users may not mind as much.

Color reproduction and dynamic range:

Pentax and Panasonic tweak color science differently. The FH7 tends to render warmer skin tones with more vibrant saturation, making it appealing for portraits. Pentax produces a cooler, slightly muted palette better suited for naturalistic landscapes but sometimes less flattering for portraiture.

Dynamic range on both is limited by sensor type and processing, so harsh contrasts tend to lose detail in shadows or highlights, particularly on sunny days. The FH7’s Venus Engine IV processor helps somewhat with noise reduction but cannot replace the advantage of a larger sensor.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy in the Moment

Autofocus quality defines many use scenarios - including portraits, wildlife, and street photography - since missing focus ruins shots even if exposure is perfect.

• Panasonic FH7 autofocus system:
  • 11-point contrast-detection AF
  • Face detection and touch AF on rear screen
  • AF tracking available
• Pentax Efina autofocus system:
  • Unknown number of focus points, center-weighted focus
  • Contrast detection only, with face detection
  • No AF tracking and no touch AF

My hands-on evaluation found the Panasonic’s AF speed and tracking capabilities notably better for moving subjects or quick handheld shooting. It locks on faster and keeps focus better when recomposing on faces or pets. The touch autofocus is responsive and practical, especially when working in live view without a viewfinder.

The Pentax autofocus, while adequate for stationary subjects, struggled with motivation in low contrast or dynamic scenes. Its lack of continuous AF and tracking limits effectiveness for action or wildlife photographers relying on crisp focus amidst movement.

In bright outdoor situations, both cameras focus relatively quickly due to good contrast, but indoors or low light, the FH7 maintains composure where the Efina ambiguously hunts.

Zoom Lenses and Optical Performance: Versatility Versus Image Quality

Both feature fixed zoom lenses with moderate reach and maximum apertures that vary across focal lengths.

• Panasonic FH7 lens: 28-112mm equivalent, 4x optical zoom, max aperture f/3.1–6.5
• Pentax Efina lens: 26-130mm equivalent, 5x optical zoom, max aperture f/3.5–6.3

Panasonic FH7 front Panasonic FH7 screen back Pentax Efina front Pentax Efina screen back

In practice, the Pentax’s slightly longer zoom range gives additional framing versatility - useful for candid street shots or casual telephoto reach. However, the Panasonic’s wider starting focal length is marginally better for general snapshots or landscapes.

Image quality at the wide end favors the Panasonic - images are pleasantly sharp and exhibit less chromatic aberration, a result of better lens design paired with its Venus Engine processor. The Pentax lens softens quickly towards telephoto and edges, a compromise of the ultra-compact layout.

Both cameras use optical image stabilization to combat hand shakiness:

• Panasonic employs Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), proven effective in preserving sharpness at slower shutter speeds.
• Pentax relies on Digital Image Stabilization, essentially electronic correction, which often yields softer edges and less natural results in my tests.

For macro shooting, the Panasonic’s focus can get much closer (~5 cm) compared to our Pentax friend (~20 cm). This means the FH7 better serves macro enthusiasts wanting tight close-ups of flowers or insects.

Rear LCD Screens and User Interface: How You See and Control Your Shots

Viewing and controlling the camera is nearly as important as the lens and sensor. Here’s the scoop:

• Panasonic FH7:
  • 3-inch fixed touchscreen, 230K dots
  • Touch-to-focus and shutter release
  • Live view with real-time display
• Pentax Efina:
  • 2.5-inch fixed TFT LCD, 230K dots
  • No touchscreen functionality
  • Live view available but no touch interaction

The Panasonic FH7’s touchscreen intuitively lets you move the focus point or tap the shutter without fumbling through buttons - especially helpful when framing from awkward angles or shooting quickly. The larger display size improves composition confidence and reviewing images.

The Efina’s smaller, non-touch screen is serviceable but feels more dated. Menus and focus point adjustments require button navigation, which slows operations down and is less convenient in spontaneous shooting scenarios.

Overall, Panasonic’s interface is easier to learn and use, particularly for newcomers or casual users who appreciate a more smartphone-like interaction.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Power and Media Compatibility

Both cameras use proprietary battery packs and support standard SD/SDHC storage:

• Panasonic FH7: Rated for approx. 260 shots per charge
• Pentax Efina: Rated for approx. 200 shots per charge

In everyday use, I found the FH7’s battery endurance noticeably better, likely attributed to less frequent “waking” delays and efficient power management. Neither camera supports USB charging, so carrying spare batteries is advised for extended shoots.

Storage compatibility is broadly similar, with both accommodating SD cards and internal memory. However, the Pentax’s internal storage is very limited, underscoring the need for adequate SDHC/SDXC cards.

Video Capabilities: Basic HD Recording for Casual Creators

In terms of video, neither camera is made for serious filmmaking but can record basic HD clips:

• Panasonic FH7: 1280 x 720 at 30 fps, Motion JPEG format
• Pentax Efina: 1280 x 720 and 640 x 480 at unknown frame rates, no specified format

Neither supports 4K, external mics, or advanced stabilization in video mode. Image quality is commensurate with their sensors - adequate for home movies or social media but not suitable for pro video work.

Specialized Photography Use Cases: Who Should Consider Which?

My hands-on testing across a range of genres reveals distinct suitability nuances. Here is a breakdown:

Portrait Photography

• Panasonic FH7: Excellent skin tone reproduction, face detection, and pleasing bokeh from modest aperture. Touch AF helps with achieving crisp focus on eyes.
• Pentax Efina: Less consistent face detection, cooler tones, and slightly limited focusing precision. Macro range less suited to tight headshots.

Landscape Photography

• Panasonic FH7: Better resolution and dynamic range, wider lens start, stronger sharpness. OIS beneficial for handheld scenarios.
• Pentax Efina: Slightly longer zoom for details, but image softening and narrower ISO range limit usage in varied light.

Wildlife and Sports

• Neither camera offers rapid autofocus or high frame rates needed for action shots. The Panasonic’s AF tracking and 4 fps burst mode edge out the Pentax.
• Both constrained by slow shutter speeds and limited zoom reach.

Street Photography

• The Pentax shines for super-discreet shooting due to its ultra-compact size and light weight - ideal for covert candid shots.
• The Panasonic’s better ergonomic grip and faster AF suit walk-and-shoot candid captures where quick framing is needed.

Macro Photography

• Panasonic has the edge with closer focusing distance and more detailed images.
• Pentax acceptable for casual flowers but not fine macro work.

Night and Astro

• Both struggle due to sensor size and noise levels at high ISO. Pentax slightly cleaner at ISO 800 but limited max ISO caps shooting flexibility. Neither supports long exposure modes natively.

Travel Photography

• Panasonic FH7 offers a good compromise of zoom range, image quality, and battery life for versatile travel shooting.
• Pentax Efina appeals to ultra-light travelers prioritizing minimal weight over functionality.

Professional Work

• Neither supports RAW or advanced exposure modes, limiting professional reliability.
• Panasonic’s JPEG quality and focusing systems allow casual professional use for simple snapshots, weddings, or social media images.
• Pentax more of a backup or quick snap camera.

Overall Performance Ratings and Value Assessment

Having tested these cameras extensively against industry standards using resolution charts, low-light scenarios, and autofocus trials, here’s a quick summation:

*Value scores take into account the respective launch and current market pricing.

In raw performance terms, the Panasonic Lumix FH7 dominates with more versatile performance, better image quality, and ergonomics. The Pentax Efina is more niche, appealing primarily to those who want the smallest, lightest package and are willing to sacrifice speed and quality.

Practical Recommendations: Which Camera Should You Choose?

After the above analysis, here are targeted recommendations based on usage needs:

When to Choose the Panasonic Lumix FH7

• You want better image quality and sharper images in daylight and portrait applications.
• You rely on face detection and touch AF for precise quick focusing.
• Ease of interface use and screen responsiveness matter to you.
• You’re an enthusiast or casual shooter who wants a solid all-around compact for travel, street, and family use.
• You don’t require professional RAW flexibility but want decent JPEG quality.

When the Pentax Efina Could Be Right for You

• Your key priority is ultra-compact portability above all else - slipping in the smallest pockets or minimal carry.
• You want a no-frills point-and-shoot at a lower price point and are okay with slower AF and lesser zoom quality.
• You lean towards simple snapshots in well-lit environments, for example simple family events or vacation snaps.
• You don’t mind manual menu navigation without touchscreen.

Final Thoughts: Two Cameras, Two Different Compact Paths

While both the Panasonic Lumix FH7 and Pentax Efina hail from the same compact segment featuring small 1/2.3” sensors and fixed zoom lenses, my extensive hands-on experience reveals Panasonic’s FH7 as a markedly more polished and versatile tool. The FH7’s better image quality, faster autofocus, and tactile ergonomics justify its slightly heavier size and higher price tag.

The Pentax Efina deserves credit for its ultra-lightweight design and affordability but it is best appreciated by users prioritizing minimalism above performance. It’s a capable pocketable secondary camera more than a main imaging device.

Whichever you choose, understanding these realities and how each performs across genres - from portraits to street and travel photography - ensures you’re investing in a camera that truly meets your needs.

If image quality, autofocus, and handling top your checklist, the Panasonic Lumix FH7 is the clear winner. If pocket size and price weigh more heavily, consider the Pentax Efina.

Thank you for reading this detailed comparison. For further reading, our hands-on galleries and test images below illustrate how each camera handles typical scenes:

Panasonic FH7 front Panasonic FH7 screen back Pentax Efina front Pentax Efina screen back

Disclosure: Both cameras were evaluated under consistent lighting and shooting conditions, using personal field tests supplemented by technical data. No sponsorship or manufacturer influence affected this impartial review.

If you’d like to explore more about compact cameras or specific shooting tips with these models, feel free to reach out or check other expert reviews on our site.

Happy shooting!

Panasonic FH7 front Panasonic FH7 screen back Pentax Efina front Pentax Efina screen back