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Panasonic FH8 vs Sony A290

Portability
96
Imaging
39
Features
32
Overall
36
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 front
 
Sony Alpha DSLR-A290 front
Portability
66
Imaging
53
Features
47
Overall
50

Panasonic FH8 vs Sony A290 Key Specs

Panasonic FH8
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 24-120mm (F2.5-6.4) lens
  • 123g - 96 x 57 x 19mm
  • Launched January 2012
Sony A290
(Full Review)
  • 14MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 3200
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • No Video
  • Sony/Minolta Alpha Mount
  • 549g - 128 x 97 x 86mm
  • Introduced June 2010
  • Replaced the Sony A230
Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

Panasonic Lumix FH8 vs Sony Alpha A290: A Definitive Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

When shopping for a camera, particularly for entry-level users or those upgrading from smartphones, the choice can boil down to convenience versus control, portability versus versatility. Today, I’m comparing two distinctive cameras that serve different ends of the photography spectrum: the Panasonic Lumix FH8, a compact point-and-shoot, and the Sony Alpha DSLR-A290, an entry-level DSLR. Having tested thousands of cameras over fifteen years - under varied lighting, genres, and shooting scenarios - I’ll share precise, experience-driven insights to help you decide which suits your photographic pursuits.

Let’s explore these models across technical specifications, usability, image quality, and genre-specific performance to reveal who should consider which camera.

Panasonic FH8 vs Sony A290 size comparison
Panasonic Lumix FH8 (left) vs Sony Alpha A290 (right): Physical size and ergonomics comparison.

At a Glance: Differing Classes with Distinct Strengths

Panasonic Lumix FH8 - released in early 2012 - is a compact camera powered by a 1/2.3" CCD sensor with 16 megapixels, featuring a modest zoom range (24-120mm equivalent), optical image stabilization, and a fixed lens in an ultra-light 123g body.

Sony Alpha A290 was announced in mid-2010 targeting entry-level DSLR users with a much larger APS-C sensor (illustrated below), 14MP resolution, interchangeable lens support (Sony Minolta Alpha mount), sensor-based stabilization, and a classic DSLR shape weighing 549g.

Understanding their very different sensor sizes and builds is key before diving into specifics.

Sensor Size & Image Quality: The Core Difference

Panasonic FH8 vs Sony A290 sensor size comparison
Sensor size comparison reveals why the Sony A290 delivers superior image quality over the Panasonic FH8.

The Sony A290’s APS-C sensor (23.5 x 15.7 mm) dwarfs the Panasonic FH8’s 1/2.3" sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm). The Sony sensor area is approximately 13 times larger, resulting in fundamentally better image quality potential. Larger sensors capture more light per pixel, offer better dynamic range, and higher signal-to-noise ratio, crucial for any serious photography.

From my standardized lab tests and extensive field trials:

  • Sony A290 offers cleaner images at ISO 800+, retaining detail and color fidelity in shadows and highlights.
  • Panasonic FH8 shows visible noise starting at ISO 400, unusable beyond ISO 800 for critical work.
  • The FH8’s sensor is typical of compact consumer cameras, sufficient for casual snapshots but limited in image quality and control.

Both use CCD technology, which handles color differently than modern CMOS sensors - CCD tends to deliver pleasing color at low ISOs but at the cost of speed and high-ISO performance.

Resolution-wise: the FH8 offers 16MP, the Sony A290 14MP; however, megapixels alone don’t translate to better images without sensor size backing it up.

Ergonomics & Handling: Comfort Meets Control

Panasonic FH8 vs Sony A290 top view buttons comparison
Top view comparison: Panasonic FH8's simplicity vs Sony A290’s comprehensive control layout.

Physically, these cameras couldn’t be more different.

  • The Panasonic FH8 is palm-sized, ultra-light, and straightforward - perfect for grab-and-go shooting. It has a simple control scheme dominated by auto or scene modes, no manual exposure options, and a fixed non-touch 3-inch TFT LCD.

  • The Sony A290 is a traditional DSLR with a more substantial grip, a pentamirror optical viewfinder, multiple dedicated dials and buttons, and a smaller 2.7-inch LCD on the back.

During extensive shooting sessions, I found the Sony more comfortable for a variety of grips and especially longer shoots, important if you get serious about photography. The FH8’s diminutive size, while attractive for travel or street candid shooting, tends to be cramped for hands-on control.

Display & User Interface: What You See Matters

Panasonic FH8 vs Sony A290 Screen and Viewfinder comparison
Rear LCD screen and interface: Panasonic FH8 offers a larger but lower-res screen; Sony A290 provides smaller but responsive display.

The Panasonic’s 3-inch LCD screen is larger but limited to 230k-dot resolution - sufficient for framing but sparse on detail during review. The Sony’s 2.7-inch LCD shares this resolution, but the presence of an optical viewfinder on the Sony is crucial. It enables precise composition, especially outdoors in bright light or action scenes, something the Panasonic lacks entirely.

Both cameras have no touchscreen, limiting ease for navigating menus, but the Sony offers more customizable controls accessible via dedicated buttons and dial combinations, speeding workflow once learned. The Panasonic’s simplified menus cater to beginners unfamiliar with manual controls.

Lens Systems & Flexibility: Fixed vs Interchangeable

A pivotal difference is lens setup:

  • Panasonic FH8: Fixed 24-120mm (5x optical zoom) lens, max aperture range F2.5-F6.4. Good versatility for casual shots, landscapes, and portraits within its zoom range, but no ability to swap or use specialty lenses. The built-in image stabilization is effective for handheld shooting at moderate focal lengths.

  • Sony A290: Interchangeable lens system (Sony/Minolta Alpha mount) supporting over 140 lenses, including fast primes, telephoto zooms, macro lenses, and specialized optics. This expands creative potential significantly. The kit lens often paired is an 18-55mm F3.5-5.6, and the sensor-based stabilization helps with any lens.

From shooting portraits to macro and telephoto wildlife, I always found having lens choices invaluable for achieving desired bokeh, sharpness, and framing. With fixed-lens compacts, you’re limited by the optics provided.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy Under Pressure

AF performance is critical across all photography types:

  • Panasonic FH8: Uses a 23-point contrast-detection AF system, face detection-enabled but no phase detection. Slow continuous shooting at 1 fps means it’s ill-suited to action or sports. Autofocus can hunt indoors or in low-light.

  • Sony A290: Employs a 9-point phase-detection AF system with contrast detection assist, supporting continuous AF and faster 3 fps burst shooting. Face detection works via live view, but live view autofocus is contrast-only and slower compared to viewfinder use.

In wildlife or sports situations, the Sony’s AF tracking and phase detection greatly outpace the Panasonic. I observed the FH8 struggling to lock focus on fast-moving birds or kids, whereas the A290 maintained more reliable focus in these scenarios.

Burst Rates & Shutter: Capturing the Decisive Moment

For sports or action, continuous shooting matters:

  • Panasonic FH8: 1 fps, suitable only for single shots or static subjects.
  • Sony A290: 3 fps, modest for a DSLR but better for entry-level users capturing moderate action.

Moreover, the Sony offers a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000s, enabling better freezing of fast subjects and wider aperture use in daylight. The Panasonic caps at 1/1600s, limiting those creative options.

Build Quality & Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or rugged protection. Both are designed for casual consumer use indoors or fair weather. The Sony’s DSLR body feels more substantial and durable but doesn’t venture into professional-grade weatherproofing.

If you require dust, shock, or freeze-proofing for outdoor or adventure photography, neither model fits the bill.

Battery Life & Storage: Staying Powered and Ready

  • Panasonic FH8: Rated for about 260 shots per charge, runs on proprietary battery packs. Storage through SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with internal memory as backup.

  • Sony A290: Slightly higher capability at 290 shots per charge per CIPA standards, using the NP-FH50 battery, widely regarded as reliable. Accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo and SD cards, offering flexible storage options.

In practical use, I recommend carrying spares for either camera during extended outings, but DSLR battery life often improves with habitually using the viewfinder versus LCD preview.

Video Capabilities: A Modest Comparison

  • Panasonic FH8: Offers HD video at 720p/30fps in MPEG-4 format, suitable for casual videos. No external mic input, limiting audio control.

  • Sony A290: No video recording functionality at all. A downside if you want hybrid stills and movie use.

If video is a component of your content strategy, the Panasonic holds an edge, though quite basic by today’s standards.

Specialized Photography Genres: Strengths and Limits

Let’s consider how these cameras perform across various photography types.

Portrait Photography

  • Panasonic FH8: F2.5 max aperture at wide end allows some subject isolation but limited bokeh due to small sensor size. Face detection helps with focusing on eyes. Good for snapshots but insufficient depth-of-field control for professional portraits.

  • Sony A290: Larger sensor and interchangeable lenses mean easily achievable creamy backgrounds using fast prime lenses (e.g., 50mm f/1.8). Accurate autofocus via phase detection enhances eye detection and capture reliability.

Recommendation: Serious portrait shooters will favor Sony’s flexibility and image quality.

Landscape Photography

  • Panasonic FH8: The compact form is attractive for travel hikes, but small sensor limits dynamic range and details, and lack of raw capture restricts editing potential.

  • Sony A290: APS-C sensor yields superior dynamic range and color depth. Raw support is a significant advantage when post-processing landscapes. Lens selection includes wide-angle primes and zooms optimal for sweeping vistas.

Recommendation: Sony provides more creative latitude and image fidelity for landscapes.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

  • Panasonic FH8: Fixed moderate zoom range and slow continuous shooting make it unsuitable for fast action or distant wildlife.

  • Sony A290: Moderate 3 fps shooting and phase detection autofocus improve tracking, but limited number of AF points and burst speed somewhat constrain performance compared to more advanced DSLRs.

Recommendation: Sony is better equipped but may still frustrate demanding animal or sports photographers aiming for high burst rates.

Street & Travel Photography

  • Panasonic FH8: Compact, discreet, and lightweight. Ideal for street candid shots and travel when portability is paramount. Simplicity in use lets you react quickly.

  • Sony A290: Heavier, more conspicuous, but offers higher image quality and creative control. May be bulkier to carry all day.

Recommendation: For casual travel and street photography, Panasonic is likely preferred; for planned shoots with lens variety, Sony wins.

Macro Photography

  • Panasonic FH8: Macro focusing down to 4cm is decent for casual close-ups but limited optical quality.

  • Sony A290: Using dedicated macro lenses, coupled with large sensor and go-anywhere manual focus, it offers vastly superior close-up results.

Recommendation: Sony excels here due to lens ecosystem.

Night and Astro Photography

  • Panasonic FH8: Max ISO 6400 but low sensor size hinders detailed low-light shots, limited manual control.

  • Sony A290: APS-C sensor low-light advantages, manual exposure modes, and raw shooting enable long exposures and advanced astro techniques.

Recommendation: Sony is preferred for night enthusiasts.

Video for Content Creators

  • Panasonic FH8: Offers basic 720p video, no external mic or advanced stabilization.

  • Sony A290: No video.

Recommendation: Panasonic FH8 is a simple entry-level video camera but not for serious filmmakers.

Price-to-Performance: Is Bigger Always Better?

At their respective release prices:

  • Panasonic FH8 targeted budget shoppers and casual users with a sub-$150 price.
  • Sony A290 launched near $600 (often discounted), catering to beginners ready for DSLRs.

The price gap translates into capabilities - if your budget permits, the Sony delivers substantially more power, quality, and creative freedom. But if you want a convenient, point-and-shoot with occasional video, the Panasonic is sufficient.


Sample images captured with Panasonic FH8 (top row) and Sony Alpha A290 (bottom row). Notice sharper detail and dynamic range from Sony.

Connectivity & Other Features

Both cameras lack wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which is common for their release periods. The Sony supplies HDMI output for tethered shooting or playback. USB 2.0 connectivity in both models is limited in speed and functionality by today’s standards.

Neither supports GPS, touchscreens, or advanced in-camera processing features common in modern cameras.

The Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?


Overall performance comparison shows Sony A290’s dominance in core imaging and handling.

Panasonic Lumix FH8 - Choose if you:

  • Want a lightweight, pocketable camera for everyday snapshots and travel.
  • Prefer simplicity without the complexity of interchangeable lenses or exposure modes.
  • Desire basic 720p video capability.
  • Have a tight budget and want intuitive operation.

Strengths: Portability, ease of use, modest zoom, effective optical stabilization, affordable.
Limitations: Limited image quality, slow AF, no RAW, minimal manual control, short zoom range.

Sony Alpha DSLR-A290 - Choose if you:

  • Desire significant improvements in image quality and creative control.
  • Want to learn photography with manual exposure modes and raw file capture.
  • Need interchangeable lenses for various photography types - macro, portrait, wildlife.
  • Require faster autofocusing and better low-light performance, albeit limited by entry-level specs.

Strengths: Large APS-C sensor, interchangeable lenses, raw support, optical viewfinder, manual controls.
Limitations: Heavier, no video, lower continuous frame rate than advanced DSLRs, older sensor tech.


Genre-specific performance scores clarify which camera is better suited to every photography discipline.

Final Thoughts: Practical Advice From the Field

I firmly believe every camera choice should reflect your actual shooting style and goals. In hands-on testing, the Sony A290 consistently outperformed the Panasonic Lumix FH8 in image quality, speed, and creative flexibility. However, that performance demands larger size, more skill, and yes, a higher starting investment.

If your priority is simplicity, pocketability, and occasional video for social sharing, the Panasonic FH8 remains a decent compact for casual shooters or as a secondary camera. But for serious enthusiasts starting their photographic journey or photographers who want a versatile tool without breaking the bank, the Sony Alpha A290 offers a fundamentally better foundation - and a path toward growth with the extensive Minolta lens lineup.

Why you can trust this comparison: These evaluations are based on extensive side-by-side testing, standardized laboratory measurements, and varied real-world shooting experiences accumulated over 15 years. I’ve handled both cameras in typical use and have prioritized honest assessments relative to their market segment and era.

Whether you opt for the Panasonic’s casual ease or the Sony’s DSLR experience, be sure you’re buying the best fit for your photographic ambitions. For more detailed tutorials on DSLR usage or compact camera shooting tricks, feel free to reach out or explore our dedicated guides.

Happy shooting!

Panasonic FH8 vs Sony A290 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic FH8 and Sony A290
 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8Sony Alpha DSLR-A290
General Information
Make Panasonic Sony
Model type Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 Sony Alpha DSLR-A290
Class Small Sensor Compact Entry-Level DSLR
Launched 2012-01-09 2010-06-09
Body design Compact Compact SLR
Sensor Information
Processor - Bionz
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" APS-C
Sensor dimensions 6.08 x 4.56mm 23.5 x 15.7mm
Sensor area 27.7mm² 369.0mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixel 14 megapixel
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 3:2 and 16:9
Maximum resolution 4608 x 3456 4592 x 3056
Maximum native ISO 6400 3200
Lowest native ISO 100 100
RAW photos
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch focus
Continuous AF
Single AF
Tracking AF
Selective AF
AF center weighted
AF multi area
AF live view
Face detection focusing
Contract detection focusing
Phase detection focusing
Total focus points 23 9
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens Sony/Minolta Alpha
Lens zoom range 24-120mm (5.0x) -
Largest aperture f/2.5-6.4 -
Macro focusing range 4cm -
Available lenses - 143
Crop factor 5.9 1.5
Screen
Screen type Fixed Type Fixed Type
Screen sizing 3" 2.7"
Resolution of screen 230 thousand dot 230 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Screen technology TFT Color LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None Optical (pentamirror)
Viewfinder coverage - 95%
Viewfinder magnification - 0.55x
Features
Slowest shutter speed 8 secs 30 secs
Maximum shutter speed 1/1600 secs 1/4000 secs
Continuous shooting speed 1.0fps 3.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation - Yes
Set WB
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash distance 5.60 m 10.00 m (at ISO 100)
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye reduction Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, High Speed Sync, Rear Curtain, Fill-in, Wireless
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Maximum flash sync - 1/160 secs
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps) -
Maximum video resolution 1280x720 None
Video file format MPEG-4 -
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment seal
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 123 gr (0.27 lbs) 549 gr (1.21 lbs)
Dimensions 96 x 57 x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") 128 x 97 x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating not tested 66
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 22.6
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 11.5
DXO Low light rating not tested 615
Other
Battery life 260 photographs 290 photographs
Type of battery Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery ID - NP-FH50
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo, SD/SDHC
Storage slots Single Single
Price at launch $149 $600