Panasonic FH8 vs Panasonic LX3

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic FH8 versus Panasonic LX3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras and both are offered by Panasonic. There exists a significant gap among the resolutions of the FH8 (16MP) and LX3 (10MP) and the FH8 (1/2.3") and LX3 (1/1.63") posses different sensor measurements.

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The FH8 was unveiled 3 years later than the LX3 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the FH8 matches up versus the LX3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH8 Gallery and Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH8 provides outer dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) while the Panasonic LX3 has measurements of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FH8 versus Panasonic LX3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the FH8 compared to the LX3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FH8 and LX3 is 96 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing only by looking through technical specs. The photograph underneath should provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the FH8 and LX3.

As you can tell, both of the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FH8 with its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Panasonic FH8 will provide you with more detail having an extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The younger FH8 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.