Panasonic FH7 vs Pentax E85

In this write-up, we are looking at the Panasonic FH7 and Pentax E85, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a big gap between the image resolutions of the FH7 (16MP) and E85 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FH7 was manufactured 24 months later than the E85 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a thorough comparison, below is a short summation of how the FH7 matches up versus the E85 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH7 and Pentax Optio E85. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH7 Gallery and Pentax E85 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FH7 features physical measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Pentax E85 has specifications of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") having a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FH7 and Pentax E85 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the FH7 and the E85.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FH7 and E85 is 96 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements merely by going over a spec sheet. The visual underneath will give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the FH7 and E85.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should anticipate the Panasonic FH7 to deliver extra detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The fresher FH7 provides an edge when it comes to sensor technology.