Panasonic FH8 vs Sony HX5

Below, we are evaluating the Panasonic FH8 vs Sony HX5, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a considerable difference between the resolutions of the FH8 (16MP) and HX5 (10MP) and the FH8 (1/2.3") and HX5 (1/2.4") come with totally different sensor size.

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The FH8 was announced 20 months after the HX5 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the FH8 matches up vs the HX5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FH8 Gallery & Sony HX5 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH8 provides exterior 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 Sony HX5 has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH8 vs Sony HX5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the FH8 vs the HX5.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the FH8 and HX5 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its hard to see the difference between sensor sizes just by checking specs. The pic underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH8 and HX5.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FH8 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic FH8 will give greater detail with its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The fresher FH8 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor technology.