Panasonic FH8 vs Panasonic GF2

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic FH8 vs Panasonic GF2, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are produced by Panasonic. There is a crucial difference between the sensor resolutions of the FH8 (16MP) and GF2 (12MP) and the FH8 (1/2.3") and GF2 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor sizes.

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The FH8 was brought out 11 months later than the GF2 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FH8 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a concise view of how the FH8 matches up against the GF2 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FH8 Gallery and Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera, you should factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FH8 provides outside dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) while the Panasonic GF2 has specifications of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") along with a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FH8 vs Panasonic GF2 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use at that moment. Below is the front view scale comparison of the FH8 against the GF2.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the FH8 and GF2 is 96 and 88 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualize the difference between sensor measurements merely by checking specifications. The visual below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FH8 and GF2.

To sum up, each of these cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The FH8 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic FH8 will give you more detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more recent FH8 should have a benefit in sensor tech.