Panasonic FH7 vs Sony HX30V

Following is a comprehensive review of the Panasonic FH7 and Sony HX30V, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the FH7 (16MP) and the HX30V (18MP) is relatively comparable and they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The FH7 was released 5 months before the HX30V and they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a thorough comparison, below is a simple view of how the FH7 scores against the HX30V in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH7 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH7 Gallery and Sony HX30V Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera, you will have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH7 has got outside dimensions of 95mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Sony HX30V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FH7 and Sony HX30V in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the FH7 compared to the HX30V.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FH7 and HX30V is 96 and 90 respectively.

Often, its hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizes purely by going through technical specs. The image below may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH7 and HX30V.

As you have seen, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should count on the Sony HX30V to show more detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively.