Panasonic FH8 vs Pentax P70

The following is a in-depth analysis of the Panasonic FH8 and Pentax P70, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Ultracompact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the FH8 (16MP) and P70 (12MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The FH8 was launched 2 years after the P70 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax P70 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the FH8 matches up against the P70 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and Pentax Optio P70. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH8 Gallery and Pentax P70 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera, you have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH8 offers exterior dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) while the Pentax P70 has proportions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") with a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FH8 and Pentax P70 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the FH8 and the P70.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FH8 and P70 is 96 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to see the gap in sensor dimensions only by going through a spec sheet. The pic below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH8 and P70.

As you can see, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Panasonic FH8 to show more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The younger FH8 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.