Panasonic FH8 vs Pentax P80

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Panasonic FH8 vs Pentax P80, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a significant gap between the resolutions of the FH8 (16MP) and P80 (12MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The FH8 was revealed 2 years later than the P80 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a in depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the FH8 matches up against the P80 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and Pentax Optio P80. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH8 Gallery and Pentax P80 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH8 features external measurements 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 Pentax P80 has measurements of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FH8 vs Pentax P80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the FH8 compared to the P80.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH8 and P80 is 96 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to see the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading through specs. The graphic below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FH8 and P80.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Panasonic FH8 to resolve greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern FH8 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.